STUART Littler has named all but one of his 13 new signings in the 21-man squad to face Widnes Vikings this Sunday.
George Hirst, who signed from Almondbury Spartans, misses out after he rolled his ankle in last week’s opposed session against Batley Bulldogs.
The injury is not expected to be long-term and he should be back in contention for the game against Rochdale Hornets next week.
Everybody named in the squad will be given a run-out as our head coach looks to give his players much-needed game time with the League One campaign looming closer.
The remaining players absent from the squad are Tommy Brierley, Callum Cameron, James Thornton and Emmerson Whittel.
Tommy Brierley — while progressing well — is still recovering from his long-term cruciate ligament injury and is, therefore, ruled out.
Callum Cameron and Emmerson Whittel miss out due to outstanding suspensions which they incurred during last year’s play-off derby against Rochdale Hornets.
Callum picked up an eight-game suspension while Emmerson was banned for four.
The bans include friendly games meaning Callum will miss six games of the League One season and Emmerson will miss just two.
James Thornton misses out this week through injury, but will be available for selection for the Law Cup next week.
Said Stu:
“It’s an exciting match up. They’re [Widnes] a very strong side, I went watching them last week — they’ve got depth in the squad, so it’s going to be a good challenge for us.
“They’re well-coached and well-drilled. It’s up to our lads now, we’re getting into games and getting repetitions in.
“Now is the time for people to start stepping up and claiming jerseys and that starts on Sunday.
“We’re trying to give people game time and come through injury free, but also want to see our systems and processes being put into application.
“It’s the first game for us, the second for them, so hopefully we can give a good account of ourselves and show some pride in the jersey.”
Squad in full: Ah Van, Baker, Bardsley, Blagbrough, Ferry, Hamilton, Hartley, Keppel, McNally, Meadows, Morgan, Nelmes, Newton, Paga, Ridyard, Sheridan, Slater, Taira, Wellington, Wilkinson, Yarrow.
Pay on the day is available for the Widnes Vikings warm-up game at the Vestacare Stadium this Sunday (3pm kick off), or alternatively you can purchase tickets on our ticketing page.
Fans attending the Vestacare this season will benefit from a ‘Happy Hour’ on draught beer in the Lancaster Club bar one hour before and after the game.
Avro Pilsner, Original Kingston Cider and Tetley’s will be priced at £3, with San Miguel, Wild Berry Kingston Cider and Guinness costing £4 during these times.
