Gareth O’Brien returns as Leigh coach reveals forward out ‘long-term’

Leigh coach Adrian Lam says they are likely to be boosted by the return of Gareth O’Brien for Sunday’s trip to Wakefield. 

O’Brien will return for the Leopards if he completes his return to play concussion protocol after missing last week’s 22-20 defeat to Salford.

However, it’s not good news for versatile forward Jack Hughes, who has been ruled out for up to six weeks after suffering a torn calf against Salford.

The Leopards will still be without Fijian prop Ben Nakubuwai for a couple of more weeks yet due to a knee injury.

“We’ve only got a small squad as most know but I think we’re certainly pushing the boundaries of that at the moment,” Lam said.

“Jack Hughes has torn his calf at Grade Two or Three, so that is going to be long-term.

“We are looking at four to six weeks for that so that’s not good news for the club or Jack.

“He has missed a fair few games this year as well so it is frustrating for him and us but we’ve just got to get on with it.

“If there is any good news, it’s the fact Gaz O’Brien is back after missing the last game through a failed HIA. We’ve certainly missed him over the last few weeks.

“On top of that, Ben Nakubuwai is still in doubt with a medial ligament strain in his knee, so he could be out for up to four weeks too.”

Gareth O’Brien utility value

O’Brien, who joined Leigh from Castleford in the off-season, offers plenty of versatility, being comfortable to play both full-back or half-back.

He will slot back in at full-back if he passes his final return to protocol this week, with Zak Hardaker shifting back to centre.

“I think he is in the top couple of players for try assists for us this year which is important when you look at scoring points,” Lam said.

“That will push Zak back to centre if Gaz passes his (head) test. If he passes his test, that will probably push Zak back to centre where I think its Zak’s best position too and the best position for us moving forward.

“That tightens all that up and I’m excited by the challenge that is to go up to Wakefield, who will certainly play like it’s a final.”

Leigh face Wakefield at Belle Vue in Round Nine of Super League on Sunday, 3pm kick-off.

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