St Helens face Castleford Tigers this week, but face a lengthy list of injuries and suspensions.
Therefore, we’ve put together a probable starting 13 for this game – of players likely to be able to play the match.
Full-back: Jack Welsby
Credit: John Clifton/SWpix.com
Harry Robertson is injured, meaning Welsby should, after being on the bench last week, be back in the starting lineup.
It’s a fresh knee injury for Robertson, but it’s not expected to keep him out for long.
Wingers: Tee Ritson and Tommy Makinson
Tommy Makinson is back from his ban, so he will be available to see out his Saints career.
Waqa Blake will likely be needed in the centres.
Centres: Waqa Blake and Siona Mata’utia
Mark Percival is still out, after suffering an Achilles injury near the start of August.
He is expected back in the next few weeks, but likely won’t make it for this week.
Half-backs: Jonny Lomax and Lewis Dodd
Credit: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
If Lewis Dodd is ready, it’s likely that Paul Wellens would like to play him – as Moses Mbye is banned for this match.
Front row: George Delaney, Jake Burns and Agnatius Paasi
A fresh injury concern after this weekend, Alex Walmsley’s knee injury will be assessed – but we don’t currently know when he’s set to return.
Therefore, it seems that George Delaney will move into the starting thirteen.
Daryl Clark might be back for this week, but if he is, he may not be risked right from the start, so Jake Burns will likely reprise his starting role at hooker.
Meanwhile, Matty Lees’ ban, handed to him by the Match Review Panel this week, will also miss out, so Angatius Paasi will likely start.
Second row: Matt Whitley, Joe Batchelor and Morgan Knowles
Credit: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
Sironen hasn’t played since the derby defeat to Wigan Warriors last month due to a calf injury.
He was supposed to be back around now, but he has recently had a further setback and isn’t expected back before the play-offs – if they make it.
St Helens Player of the Year in 2023 – James Bell – remains out due to a back injury.
