Catalans boss confirms injury blow that forced an SOS recall to Fouad Yaha from Toulouse

Catalans boss Steve McNamara has confirmed a fresh injury blow to England international winger Tom Davies which saw a late call-up for Fouad Yaha.

Sio Siua Taukeiaho is also set to undergo scans after picking up a foot injury during the 46-22 Magic Weekend win over Wigan.

Davies, 26, was set to make his return from injury for the clash at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park before suffering a fresh setback during captain’s run.

It saw a late call-up for the club’s record breaking try-scorer in Yaha, who was set to feature for Toulouse on dual-registration this weekend against Halifax.

Davies has crossed for six tries in 11 Super League appearances so far in 2023, and last featured in the Round 11 home clash against St Helens earlier in May.

McNamara confirms fresh injury blow for Tom Davies

“He was back from injury – he had a neck injury. He was due to play, but he rolled his ankle on team run,” McNamara explained.

“Fouad was at Toulouse and was training on dual-registration and we had to drive him back and fly him with us.

“It’s disappointing for Tom, and hopefully it won’t be too serious.”

Meanwhile, the Dragons suffered a fresh injury to Tonga international Taukeiaho during the Magic Weekend victory, having limped off in the second half.

The 31-year-old was named at starting prop for the clash which saw a hat-trick for Tom Johnstone and a brace for Matt Whitley, as well as tries from Sam Tomkins, Arthur Mourgue and Arthur Romano.

The victory sees Catalans climb to the top of the Super League table over Warrington, who face Hull in the closing fixture of the weekend on Sunday.

“He’s got a sore foot,” McNamara said on Taukeiaho. “From a kick-off tackle, he got landed on and he’s sore.

“We’re not quite sure what it is but it’s not a good sign for him.

“I thought he was unbelievable as a middle. His first spell he was incredible and he set the platform for us.

“He’s playing with Mitchell Pearce there, who I thought was head and shoulders above any other scrum half in the competition today, he was that good.”

McNamara admits the club will have to investigate the injury further with a scan expected next week.

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