York Knights veteran Paul McShane admits he grappled with self-doubt before proving to himself that he could still perform at the highest level.

The former Super League Man of Steel retired from full-time rugby at the end of 2024 and looked set to see out his career in the Championship.

However, that plan changed once York pulled up a seat at the top table.

McShane now finds himself back competing against Super League's best two seasons after stepping away from the full-time game.

Asked if he had found a second wind, the 36-year-old replied with a smile: "I don't know about that.

"My intention was to stay in the Championship but York got promoted and asked if I'd be able to do another year so I thought I'd help them out.

"With how well the club did last year, I would have been stupid to stop then. It was York's first time in Super League and a chance to go down in history with the club. It was an opportunity I couldn't miss.

"At the start of the year, there was a lot of doubt about whether I could still hold my own at this level, going into every week worried that I'd embarrass myself."

Paul McShane is playing with a smile on his face after overcoming a mental hurdle. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — Paul McShane is playing with a smile on his face after overcoming a mental hurdle. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

Those fears have quickly been dispelled. The evergreen hooker has been one of York's standout performers, underlining his influence in last week's victory over former club Castleford Tigers.

McShane missed the previous three games but has otherwise been an ever-present for the Knights in their maiden campaign.

"I still enjoy it," he added. "I'm probably playing with more of a smile on my face now than I did when I was younger.

"It was a relief to get back out there and get a much-needed win. It was a tough few weeks.

Paul McShane underlined his influence in last week's win at Castleford. (Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com)

"The reception I received was great. I spent nine years at Cas and it holds a fond place in my heart. It felt nice."

Remarkably, the ex-England international is set to go around again next season.

As for how much he has left in the tank, even McShane is not quite sure.

"Mash (Mark Applegarth) asks me this all the time," he laughed.

Paul McShane, left, is preparing to return to Magic Weekend. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

"As it stands, I'm contracted for next year. I'd just be honest with the club if I felt I wasn't pulling my weight or was stopping a young kid from getting an opportunity. I think I've served my time and would gladly give it to one of those kids.

"I've told Mash that I've done nine (hooker) for too long now and to give me a crack somewhere else. Wherever he needs me, I'll play."

McShane returns to the big stage on Saturday when York face Huddersfield Giants in the opening game of Magic Weekend.

He is determined to help the Knights prove their Super League credentials.

"It's been a while since I did a Magic," said McShane, who last featured at the 2023 event.

"We're trying to build as much consistency as we can and a bit of momentum. We had a great start followed by a blip but hopefully we can get back on it after last week.

"It's a really attractive city and people like coming to play at York. When Wigan came, there was red and white everywhere.

"It's massive for the city. The fanbase is building and community rugby is growing. I'd like to see York given a run in Super League."