Lam: I’ll blood the youngsters instead of making signings

Wigan Warriors head coach Adrian Lam says he will continue to turn to the club’s academy products rather than sign new players for the remainder of the 2020 season.

The Warriors are without up to six first team players for this Sunday’s Super League clash against Leeds, with injuries and suspensions started to mount up.

Speaking ahead of the game, Lam gave an update of those missing and how he plans to give his young players the chance to shine at the Totally Wicked Stadium.

“Harry Smith will start in place of Thomas Leuluai, who is injured,” said the Wigan boss. “We also have Joe Shorrocks and Amir Bourouh to come in. It would be a good test for them against a quality side like Leeds Rhinos.

“We are a bit short in the middle at the moment as a few of our experienced players are sidelined.

“We are missing Sean O’Loughlin, Oliver Partington, Ben Flower, George Burgess, Tony Clubb then of course Tommy (Leuluai) and Oliver Gildart is still out.”

It’s not all bad news for Wigan though who will have Joe Burgess and recent Leeds loanee Joe Greenwood available for selection against the Rhinos.

“They will add experience to the team,” said Lam. “I feel as the young lads can learn a lot from them should they get in.

“We are in a good place at the moment. We are full of confidence. The lads are playing some very good rugby and have trained well all week.

“They have all been eager to impress and I hope they can take all of their enthusiasm into the match on Sunday, which should hopefully be a spectacle.”