Why Tommy Makinson will not play for St Helens against Wigan Warriors tonight

Tommy Makinson will not take to the field for St Helens against the Wigan Warriors tonight.

Head coach Kristian Woolf confirmed the news in his pre-match press conference, stating that there had been ‘swelling’ around his knee, and, with the games coming thick and fast, he didn’t want to risk the England international.

Woolf said: “Unfortunately after training on Tuesday Tommy had a little flare up and swelling around the knee and we thought it might resolve during the week but he couldn’t get through the captain’s run.

“So that is obviously a real indication that he won’t be able to get through tonight and play and not have he influence that Tommy has.

“It’s a smart decision to not play him we need him for more games down the track.”

Woolf also revealed that it would give a chance for youngster Josh Simm, who is a Saints lad through and through and who will be leaving at the end of the season.

“Tommy is a really influential player for us and it’s the right decision but it also create a chance for young Josh Simm – he’s a young Saints lad and I know this game will mean a lot to him.

“It’s the type of game that gets our players excited, we know what atmosphere it will be and I know everyone will give their best tonight.”

A win for Saints would secure the League Leaders’ Shield and cement their place at the top of the Super League table as we head into the business end of the season.