Wigan Warriors suffer huge blow

We have seen squad news confirmed by the likes of Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and Huddersfield Giants ahead of some huge games on Friday night.

Speaking of squads, Wigan have moved to get their squad ready for the future and gave a four year deal to Brad O’Neill earlier today in what has been a day of mixed news for the club.

Speaking on O’Neill, Matt Peet said: “With the way he is playing and the fact he is a product of our system – there’s a lot of delight there. Brad was always keen to stay around, he’s a good kid.”

But as aforementioned, today has been a mixed day for Wigan with Peet delivering a disappointing update on one of their stars.

This is Ethan Havard who left the field with a hamstring injury as Wigan were stunned by Wakefield Trinity last week.

Peet confirmed Havard will miss a month of action: “Ethan [Havard] is probably going to be around the four-week mark. It’s a tough one to take, he’s been important for us.

“Willie [Isa] should be back in full training next week and Sam Powell is a similar time to Ethan.”

This comes as Wigan prepare for that clash against Warrington, a battle between fourth and firth:

“You have to prepare for the best of them. Their energy and effort against St Helens last week was right up there and they’ll be looking to build on that. “It should be a fantastic clash for everyone involved, including the spectators.”

It is a huge game and both sides have vital boosts going into the game. Wigan have Kaide Ellis back, after his red card against Warrington earlier this year, and Kai Pearce-Paul.

Meanwhile, Warrington could have George Williams, Sam Kasiano and Matty Nicholson back.

However, they have suffered a sizeable blow with star Matty Ashton not named in the 21 man squad after his two amazing tries last week.

Josh Thewlis is again absent after missing last week. This could mean Matty Russell and centre Connor Wrench start on the wings.

Given Wigan’s threat on the flanks with Liam Marshall and Abbas Miski this could be a huge problem for the Wolves and Daryl Powell.

The game takes place at 8pm on Friday on Sky Sports.