Rugby League News: Saints Face Blow as Walmsley Eyes Potential Knee Surgery
In a concerning development for St Helens, it has emerged that prop Alex Walmsley could be sidelined for up to four months due to a potential knee surgery, in addition to the eight-week layoff he was already facing for a hamstring injury.
The news was confirmed by Saints head coach Paul Wellens after his side’s narrow 13-12 victory over Huddersfield Giants on Thursday night. Wellens revealed that the initial hamstring problem would keep Walmsley out for six to eight weeks, but the prospect of required knee surgery could potentially double that timeframe.
“The hamstring injury is a six to eight week one, but it’s looking like Al may require knee surgery as well. If that’s the case it’ll keep him out for double that period,” Wellens admitted.
Despite the significant blow of potentially losing their influential prop for an extended period, St Helens managed to grind out a hard-fought win over Huddersfield to move to the top of the Super League table. Wellens made a bold tactical reshuffle midway through the first half, bringing off Jon Bennison and moving Jack Welsby to fullback, with Moses Mbye slotting in at half-back.
“There was nothing wrong with what Jon Bennison was doing but I thought our attack was becoming a little bit too predictable,” Wellens explained. “Splitting Jonny and Jack made us a little bit more potent.”
The Saints will be hoping to maintain their form and momentum despite the potential absence of Walmsley, who has been a key figure in their recent success. The club will now assess the full extent of the prop’s knee issue and determine the best course of action to ensure his recovery and return to the field.
🔗 Source
