SAM Burgess admits he “wouldn’t be surprised” if he had to pick from the same pool of outside-backs for Warrington Wolves’ Challenge Cup quarter-final against St Helens on Sunday.
But while the participation of his more regular starters remains up in the air again, he insists he is more than comfortable giving those who filled the void another chance.
True to earlier predictions, Burgess had to change his entire three-quarter line for last week’s Super League clash with Leeds Rhinos after Matty Ashton and Toby King aggravated foot and groin injuries respectively during the victory at Saints the previous week while Josh Thewlis and Rodrick Tai both picked up hip knocks.
Ben Currie moved from the back row into the centres but the three players brought in to face the Rhinos all scored tries in a 16-14 victory – Stefan Ratchford from centre and Arron Lindop and match-winner Jake Thewlis from the wing.
In updating on the fitness of his squad, Burgess said Papua New Guinea international Tai had the best chance of returning of the missing quartet, all of whom will again be given every opportunity to recover in time.
Given the “do-or-die” nature of the contest, the Wire boss also admits he is weighing up what kind of risks to take with players’ fitness as they prepare for the second of three meetings with their neighbours in the space of 34 days.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if we looked similar this weekend,” he said when asked about the fitness of his outside-backs.
“It’s the nature of the beast with some of these injuries.
“Of those who missed out, Rod Tai has probably got the best chance. There’s always the temptation to take a risk with them, but sometimes you have to look at the bigger picture.
“I’ll give the players every opportunity to play again within reason.
“Other than that, we’ve pulled up pretty well from the Leeds game.
“The guys that came all did a great job so whatever situation we’re in on Sunday, we’ll embrace the challenge.
“If the young boys are in there again, it’s an opportunity for them to shine and grow a bit more in a good environment. We’re looking forward to it either way.”
One player who did return against the Rhinos – to the surprise of many – was forward Luke Yates, who had been expected to miss another month of action due to the ankle injury he picked up against Wakefield Trinity in Round Four.
The Australian came off the bench at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, and even Burgess admitted to being surprised by how quickly he managed to recover.
“Luke is a top-end professional and went over and above what was required,” he said.
“He actually trained during the week and got through it okay, so he came to me and put his hand up to play
“It’s one of those injuries too that you can strap tight and manage, he’s playing in the middle so he’s not making big movements like an outside-back would.
“He came through the game well – we weren’t going to over-expose him but he got a good 30-35 minutes which will set him up nicely for this weekend.”
