Liam Farrell: Wigan dealt major blow to England World Cup hopeful

Drew Darbyshire
Liam Farrell Wigan Warriors SWpix

Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix

England international Liam Farrell won’t play for Wigan again this season through injury and is a major doubt for the World Cup.

The 32-year-old back-rower has been ruled out for around two months after suffering a knee injury in their 30-10 win over St Helens nine days ago.

“It’s quite a big one,” revealed Wigan coach Matt Peet.

“The specialists are saying eight weeks but there are things we can do to fast track that. We’ll be doing everything we can to try and get him back on the field but we are up against it.”

World Cup hopes still alive for Liam Farrell

With the Super League Grand Final just under three weeks away, Farrell is all but certain not to feature for his hometown club again in 2022.

He is unlikely to be fit for the start of England’s World Cup campaign a month later. However, he still has a chance of making Shaun Wane’s side.

“It will depend on what England want to do,” Peet said. “Whether they’re willing to carry someone who might not be right for the first game.

“That’s Shaun’s decision to make, he could play a part in the World Cup.”

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England boss Wane’s 24-man squad is due to be announced by September 24.

“He’s in the Dream Team so obviously he’s one of the most consistent players in the competition,” Peet added.

“To lose someone like that is a blow but that’s what squads are designed for.

“Every team has gone through it. We think we are really well equipped to continue some decent form but it is a blow.”

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