Brown hopeful for Lomax return

Jonny Lomax is expected to return for St Helens for Friday’s derby against Wigan.

Lomax, 22, sat out last weekend’s win over Salford in the snow at Langtree Park.

His inclusion could see Paul Wellens moved to an unfamiliar role in the pack, although a half-back spot is up for grabs, with New Zealand international Lance Hohaia sidelined with a groin strain.

Coach Nathan Brown said: “Jonny Lomax should be right to play, but if he isn’t 100 per cent right we won’t risk it.

“He is a good player so to have him back will be a real bonus for us. Anthony Laffranchi should be back too but Lance Hohaia has a groin problem and won’t be fit for a couple of weeks.

“We’re waiting for a scan on Tony Puletua‘s knee but we’re confident it is a short term thing.”