St Helens’ Will Hopoate to miss derby clash against Wigan
Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix
St Helens boss Kristian Woolf has confirmed that Will Hopoate will miss this week’s derby against Wigan due to a hamstring issue.
Hopoate, 30, was withdrawn at half-time in the recent 38-12 win over Hull KR in Super League. He had missed the three games prior to the fixture due to injuries.
The Tonga representative has been limited to just 11 appearances in his debut campaign in Super League due to several injuries.
Woolf confirmed that his international full-back will not be risked for Friday’s televised clash at the DW Stadium. A victory would see the reigning champions win the League Leaders’ Shield.
Woolf confirms Will Hopoate absence
“He’s not going to play this week,” Woolf said.
“Like I said after the game last week, he’s tightened up the hamstring and has had some previous issues there.
“He’s a bloke that we know is really important to finish the year for us.
“We’re going to wrap him in cotton wool over the next couple of weeks and make sure we’ve got him 100% right for the games that really matter at the end of the year.”
The St Helens boss also confirmed that Hopoate has been sent for scans as a precaution.
“That’s just to make sure that we’re not dealing with anything worse,” Woolf added.
“Hopefully that’s not the case. Like I said, we just want to make sure we play it smart and have him when it really matters.”
Curtis Sironen and Morgan Knowles have both completed their respective suspensions and will be available for Friday’s game on Sky Sports.
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