O’Loughlin to have operation

Wigan head coach Shaun Wane has confirmed that captain Sean O’Loughlin will require a knee operation.

O’Loughlin, 30, has missed the Warriors last two games, as well as being ruled out of tonight’s International Origin game against the Exiles.

Speaking to the Wigan Evening Post, Wane said, “It’s obviously a blow, because Sean is our leader and we’re entering an important part of the season.

“We were hoping the injury would settle down, we gave it a couple of weeks, but he needs an operation.

“While it’s disappointing for Sean, it provides an opportunity for someone like Greg Burke to come in and see what he can do, and stake his claim for a more regular spot.”

O’Loughlin is expected to be out of action for around a month with Sam Tomkins or Harrison Hansen likely to captain the side in his absence.