England captain Sam Tomkins expected to be fit for World Cup

England captain Sam Tomkins will be fit for the upcoming World Cup on home soil, according to his Catalans coach Steve McNamara.

The 33-year-old full-back missed four of the Dragons’ last seven matches of the Super League season with a knee injury that has troubled him over the last 12 months.

But McNamara says Tomkins will be managed to ensure he gets through the World Cup.

“He’s in England getting checked out by the medical staff and they’re happy,” said McNamara.

“He’s had some ongoing problems but he’s getting closer to getting to the bottom of all of those.

“He knows the work he needs to do to keep it as strong as he can. There’s nothing major there with Sam that will stop him.

“There’s a short-term plan into the World Cup and a long-term plan for him going into next season and we’re comfortable with that.”

Sam Tomkins the victim of a long season

McNamara says the lengthy season has taken its toll on Tomkins, as it has with many players.

“His knee has been the issue but we finished late last year after getting to the Grand Final,” McNamara said. “The season started early so there was little time for proper preparation.

“We’ve seen it at most clubs, the season has taken its toll on everybody.

“World Cup year is not ideal but next season is starting a little bit later – still not quite late enough in my opinion but there will be a couple more weeks for him to recuperate after the World Cup.”

England will be without prop Alex Walmsley. The St Helens powerhouse has been ruled out for the rest of 2022 with a knee injury.

Another player who won’t be taking part in the World Cup is Leeds centre Harry Newman, who will only return to action in 2023.

England face Samoa in the World Cup’s opening game at St James’ Park in Newcastle on October 15.

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