O’Loughlin hoping to make Saints clash

James Gordon

Wigan captain Sean O’Loughlin is hopeful of returning from a calf injury to face derby rivals St Helens on Good Friday.

O’Loughlin, 34, has missed the last three games through injury, which has coincided with a dip in form for the depleted Warriors.

He told the club’s official website: “I’m hoping to make the game.

“It’s frustrating sitting on the sidelines and I know I’m not the only one itching to get back out there. I’ll be doing everything I can to make the game, if there’s one game you don’t want to miss it’s Wigan v Saints on Good Friday.

“We’ve a great record in this game and I don’t think we’ve lost on Good Friday for a few years now but we’ll need the fans to really get behind us. 

“They really lifted us in the World Club Challenge and there’s no better place to play than at the DW in front of a packed house.”

The game will carry added intrigue this season following the departure of Keiron Cunningham as St Helens coach on Monday.