Marshall in line for Wigan debut

Youngster Liam Marshall could make his first-team debut for Wigan this Friday against Leigh.

Marshall is a 20-year old winger who spent the 2016 season on loan with Swinton, scoring a stack of tries for the Lions.

Wigan coach Shaun Wane admitted he is a big talent.

“He is a very exciting player and has killed it in pre-season,” Wane said.

“He’s done what Dan Sarginson did when he first arrived and impressed me with all of his efforts.

“He also comes from good stock with his dad being Dave Marshall who played for us so hopefully he can make his debut.”

Wane has highlighted the experience in the Leigh side ahead of the local derby against the Centurion.

Harrison Hansen, Gareth Hock and Micky Higham are all players who have spent a number of years with the Warriors before moving to the Leigh Sports Village.

“There is a lot of experience and a lot of size in that side,” he said.

“They’re all very competitive players so any team with them in is going to give you a good test.”

This might be Leigh head coach Neil Jukes’ first year taking charge in Super League but Wane is full of respect for the Centurions boss.

“He has definitely earned his stripes,” he told Love Rugby League.

“He has done it from working with the kids and then coming through as an assistant.

“Neil’s showed that he has the respect of the players and they all want to win for him.”

When asked about how Leigh will fare this season, Wane tipped them to secure their Super League status with ease.

“The way they are playing they will make the top eight,” he said.

“Derek [Beaumont] and his directors have made some really good signings.

“When they get a few injuries that might test them but it’ll test any team.”