LIAM JONES is only half following in his father's footsteps.

He has taken his first steps in professional sport - just like dad Steve.

But, unlike soccer man Steve, who played in the Everton reserves, Liam is a Rugby League player. And he has just made his debut on the wing with Wigan's A team. "We're both very proud of him," said mum Val, of Park Road, Golborne.

Liam, 18, has been a prominent player with Parkside Golborne ARL since he was eight and went on to play schoolboy rugby for Wigan and Lancashire.

Then, with several top Premiership clubs chasing his signature, he signed for the Central Park giants.

Ironically, Liam did have the chance to make his name at soccer.

He was captain of his school team at Byrchall High in Ashton, and, aged 14, he signed for Blackpool.

But the lure of Rugby League proved much too strong. Sorry Dad!

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