Warrington Wolves youngster stretchered off after horror injury

Warrington Wolves have been dealt a devastating blow with young playmaker Leon Hayes having to leave the field on a stretcher in Wire’s defeat against Salford Red Devils.

Hayes has been a revelation so far in 2024 with the 20-year-old having initially stepped in to deputise for the injured George Williams in Round Two.

Since then he has retained his place with overseas star Josh Drinkwater losing his place to the youngster who has since formed a brilliant partnership with England skipper Williams.

Hayes was handed his debut at the back end of Warrington’s poor 2022 season before heading out on loan to North Wales Crusaders for much of the 2023 season.

He was once again handed a rare Supre League appearance in Round 26 of 2023 before Sam Burgess put the faith in him this season, however, it’s a season that now looks to be cut short after today’s awful injury.

Warrington Wolves young talent Leon Hayes suffers awful injury

Just prior to the hour mark during Warrington’s clash with Salford Red Devils, Wire advanced into good territory but the stadium quickly fell silent as it became evident that Leon Hayes had suffered a terrible injury.

Taking the ball into contact the 20-year-old looked to suffer an ankle injury with the Salford tacklers and dummy-half Danny Walker quickly pulling away to offer space and alert the medics to the situation.

Such was the nature of the injury that broadcasters Sky Sports chose not to show the footage of the incident again, instead showcasing highlights of the game during the lengthy stoppage as the medical team attended to Hayes.

Commentator Barrie McDermott noted: “If I’m not mistaken, there may well be damage to the ankle, the bone and the bottom end of the leg. I’ve had that injury.”

Footage did then show Hayes with his ankle being strapped up and oxygen being administered to the 20-year-old before he was stretchered off to chants of “There’s only one Leon Hayes”, something that the youngster clapped along with in a positive sign.

It was an injury that brought back memories of Willie Isa’s just weeks ago when the Wigan Warriors man had to be stretchered off the field following an ankle fracture.

Warrington would go on to cede their 12-11 lead and lose 17-12 after a penalty try was awarded when Danny Walker tackled Ryan Brierley off the ball under the sticks. However, that will be of little concern for Wire fans right now with all thoughts headed towards the health and status of Leon Hayes.

Hopefully, the injury isn’t as bad as first anticipated with all at Serious About Rugby League wishing Hayes the very best in his recovery.