St Helens boss Paul Wellens explains huge Jonny Lomax call for Wigan Warriors clash

St Helens coach Paul Wellens made a huge call in the halves for the Wigan Warriors v St Helens Good Friday derby.

Veteran halfback Jonny Lomax sits out the second game in a row, and instead, the boss has opted for 18-year-old George Whitby.

Whitby starred in St Helens’ victory over Wakefield Trinity last Friday and has retained his starting spot at seven over Lomax.

The youngster credited Saints assistant coach Lee Briers last week following his player of the match performance, and Wellens has also pointed to his assistant for inspiration for the big call.

Asked pre-match on Sky Sports about the decision to back Whitby over Lomax he said: “First and foremost, at this club, we pride ourselves on giving young players opportunities. George got that last week and grabbed it with both hands.

“You look back throughout the history of Super League, the great halfbacks, I’ve got Lee Briers as my assistant.

“When he was a young lad, he was given an opportunity and given a big responsibility in big games.

“I think that’s what George has today.”

St Helens boss Wellen talks what he expects from his side in Good Friday derby

It’s a huge game for Whitby, who’s playing only his third Super League appearance for his hometown club.

However, his St Helens coach Wellens has full confidence in his ability.

Wellens also spoke about his squad’s focus ahead of the Good Friday derby and how they can control the game.

He added: “We spoke about that during the week, the emotions there, you channel that in the right way.

“You’ve got to be tough, you’ve got to have plenty of effort and energy, but we’ve also got to execute a game plan, that’s really important.”

St Helens boss Wellens made just two changes for the derby, with Mark Percival and Daryl Clark returning to the fold.

He kept the same spine as he did against Wakefield, with Tristan Sailor at fullback, Jack Welsby and Whitby in the halves and Moses Mbye at hooker.