O’Loughlin out, Tomkins doubt for England

James Gordon

Wigan full-back Sam Tomkins is hoping to be fit for England‘s international against France at Craven Park on Saturday.

Tomkins, 23, sat out last weekend’s 80-12 thumping of Wales with a knee injury, and saw replacement Zak Hardaker score a brace of tries.

He is likely to get at least one shot at France, with the two sides also meeting in the International Series final at Salford on Saturday week.

His Warriors team-mate Sean O’Loughlin is definitely out of this weekend’s encounter, after suffering a hamstring strain against Wales.

England coach Steve McNamara said: “We monitored his injury at the weekend and will continue do so this week.

“The main aim now is trying to get him fit for the final in a fortnight’s time.

“The injury to Sean means someone else will be given a chance to shine. We have a number of options and some of the players who missed out against Wales will now be considered.”

Another Wiganer, Liam Farrell, could be in line to replace his team-mate in the squad.