Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet provides injury updates and confirms key player’s return
Veteran back-rower Willie Isa faces long-term absence
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet has shared the latest details on the fitness status of several key players, including the long-term absence of veteran back-rower Willie Isa and the imminent return of experienced prop Mike Cooper.
Isa is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious ankle injury during the team’s 60-6 victory over Castleford Tigers in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals last week. Peet explained that the club is still awaiting the full extent of Isa’s injury, but the coach is confident the 34-year-old will remain a valuable asset to the squad during his recovery.
“We’ve been in touch with Willie, and he’s had his appointments, but we don’t have all the details yet,” Peet said. “We know it’s going to be a long-term injury, and further updates will follow. Willie has an excellent mindset and is mentally very strong, so I’m sure he’ll respond in the right way and continue to be a leader for this team, even if he’s not available to play.”
Isa’s absence is likely to provide more playing time for rising star Junior Nsemba, and Peet believes the veteran back-rower will be a great mentor to the young forward during this period.
Ethan Havard’s hamstring issue still a concern
Peet also provided an update on prop Ethan Havard, who is yet to feature in 2024 due to a recurring hamstring issue. The Wigan boss explained that Havard is progressing well in training but the club is taking a cautious approach to ensure he is fully fit before returning to action.
“Ethan has been training well, but the tests show his injured leg is still not where we want it to be, so we’re going to give him a couple more weeks to fully recover before he’s considered for selection,” Peet said.
Mike Cooper set to return against Castleford
On a more positive note, Peet confirmed the return of experienced prop Mike Cooper for Friday’s match against Castleford. Cooper had been sidelined after picking up a knee injury in the team’s World Club Challenge victory over Penrith Panthers.
“It’s great to have Coops back,” Peet said. “He worked incredibly hard to get himself right for the Penrith game, and I’m looking forward to seeing him back out on the field.”
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