KEVIN Penny is looking to make a spot on the wing his own in 2016 as Warrington Wolves’ season kicks off against ‘the best backline in the world’ tomorrow night.

The home-grown winger has labelled Leeds Rhinos’ backline the world’s best ahead of their clash in the Super League opener.

The reigning champions boast considerable firepower with top internationals like Ryan Hall, Zak Hardaker, Kallum Watkins and Tom Briscoe.

Penny, 28, said: “I think we’ve got to admire their backline which for me is the best backline in the world.

“It’s a big statement to make but Zak Hardaker has just won the Man of Steel, they’ve got a dangerous centre in Kallum Watkins and two strong, fast wingers – they’re a really good outfit and we’re looking to contain that on Thursday night and hopefully come out on top.”

Last season saw Kevin occasionally deployed at full back for this first time since his junior rugby, and he was also handed the number one jersey for the convincing preseason victory over Leigh.

But the academy product still sees himself primarily as a winger and hopes to secure a place in the side there in the face of stiff competition from new signing Tom Lineham and the likes of Matty Russell, Gene Ormsby and Rhys Evans.

He said: “We’re about three or four deep in every position this year which is good for the team and good for the individuals.

“You’ve got to come into training and be on the ball every single day and to perform – if not there’s someone waiting to take your shirt.

“Playing full back is something I enjoy and something I’m learning as I’m going on.

“We’ve got some great full backs in our team with Stefan Ratchford and Kurt Gidley as well, so there are brains I can pick and learn from, but initially I’d like to get in on the wing and if not I’m more than happy to fill in wherever I’m needed and to give everything I’ve got.”

Tomorrow night’s game will see Kevin return to the ground where he made his professional debut back in 2007.

He bagged a brace in his first game in the primrose and blue as Warrington lost 42-26 at Headingley.

But the Leeds side will look very different in 2016 with the notable absence of club legends Kevin Sinfield and Jamie Peacock, who have moved to rugby union and retired respectively.

Penny added: “They’ve obviously lost some key personnel there but Leeds have got a really good reputation of bringing good young players through and I’ve no doubt they will replace those players.

“There are still a few old heads around that have been there and done it and won a few grand finals so we’re under no illusions what Leeds are going to throw at us and we’re really looking forward to the challenge.

“We’ve signed some new players in some key positions and it’s been important that we learn to gel quickly.

“It takes time to gel but I certainly think we’ve progressed a lot as a team.”

Warrington will boast considerable backing at Headingley, having laid on free busses for fans travelling over the Pennines.

Kevin said: “We’ll get a good travelling support like we usually do which definitely makes a difference.

“We’ve had a couple of boys coming over who’ve played in the State of Origin before and said how good the atmosphere but we tell them our fans create that atmosphere for us – especially on the big nights.

“They don’t just come to home games, they travel with us as well it makes a difference for us.

“It’s been a long preseason but it’s been good and it’s one that everyone has took something out of it.”