St Helens Rugby League Club Bolstered by Alex Walmsley’s Return Ahead of Salford Red Devils Clash
St Helens have received a significant boost with the return of influential prop Alex Walmsley for their upcoming Super League encounter against Salford Red Devils on Thursday. Coach Paul Wellens has confirmed the England international’s long-awaited comeback after a layoff of almost four months due to hamstring and knee injuries.
Walmsley, 34, last featured for the Saints in their Challenge Cup defeat to Warrington Wolves on April 14, but the experienced forward is now poised to make his highly anticipated return to the lineup. Wellens praised Walmsley’s diligence and hard work during the rehabilitation process, stating that the knee surgery he underwent has left the player in a much better physical condition.
“He’s a little bit ahead of schedule is Alex,” Wellens said. “The hamstring one healed some time ago but the knee operation that he had, that took a longer length of time so he had an operation there. We made the best decision for Alex’s concern and health, and having now had this surgery, his knee is now in a much better position than it was and he can now start to string some games together for us.”
The Saints’ convincing win over Hull FC last weekend came without any fresh injury concerns, leaving Wellens with the flexibility to decide whether Walmsley will start against Salford or feature from the bench. The coach acknowledged that the powerful prop has often been more comfortable in a starting role, but his versatility allows for different tactical approaches.
“Both options are available there,” Wellens explained. “We are still yet to make a call on that in the 24 hours of how we get Alex into the game.”
The return of Walmsley will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the defending Super League champions as they prepare to host the Salford Red Devils in a crucial league encounter on Thursday. Rugby league enthusiasts will be eager to see the impact the experienced prop can make in his highly anticipated comeback.
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