St Helens full-back Jack Welsby made his playing return on Sunday with the England international making incredible strides after injury.
Welsby came on off the bench against Huddersfield after being named to a St Helens squad for the first time since late May when he limped off in the away defeat to Hull KR.
That loss at Craven Park was just eleven weeks ago, however, Welsby’s initial injury diagnosis was a 16-week lay-off, putting up fears that he might only be able to return for the play-offs and be in a race to find match fitness.
Paul Wellens has spoken in recent weeks to confirm that Welsby had to be ‘held back’ with the full-back eager to return sooner, and the 24-year-old has now explained his recovery when speaking to club media SaintsTV.
“It’s been hard work. From minute one, I was eager to get back into training,” explained Welsby as he highlighted the work of the club’s head physiotherapist Nathan Mill
“Millsy was holding me back but he’s brilliant at what he does, probably one of the best in the country so it’s good to have him telling me what to do. I’m just glad to be back out here and doing what I do best.”
Welsby makes St Helens return as top two focus outlined
Welsby came on when the game was well and truly won with St Helens eventually running out as 52-4 winners, having led 24-4 at half time.
The full-back managed to register one assist and made 85 metres from just nine carries, highlighting his explosiveness and what he brings to St Helens ahead of the play-offs.
On his performance, he said: “When I got on, it felt a bit loose and a bit free so we started moving the ball and Percy (Mark Percival) was outstanding in the centres.
“We’ve got such a good relationship, on and off the field, so I know what he’s going to do and he knows what I’m going to do. You could see that with the first couple of touches I had on the pitch.”
There was also high praise for St Helens young outside backs of Owen Dagnall and Harry Robertson, both of whom have stepped up massively in recent weeks. They both cleared 150 metres on the weekend with Dagnall scoring a try and Welsby paid tribute to both men.
On Dagnall, he said: “He’s been awesome. He’s hungry, as is Harry on the other side, so I can understand why we’re playing so well.”
Saints now take on Hull FC as the start of a gauntlet of fixtures that sees them take on Hull KR, Wigan Warriors and Leigh Leopards.
Looking ahead, Welsby explained: “It’s been pretty hot here today so the boys will focus on recovery with that short turnaround. Get in and do what needs to be done.
“It’s another massive game for us chasing that top two spot.”
