Kristian Woolf sets hopeful return fixture for centre Mark Percival

St Helens head coach Kristian Woolf has confirmed that centre Mark Percival will miss the club’s clash against Leeds this Thursday in Super League. 

However, Woolf is hoping that the 28-year-old will be fit for their trip to Catalans next week during Round 17.

A leg injury has seen the international centre miss St Helens’ last two games and England’s mid-season trial against the Combined Nations All Stars. 

He will continue to be sidelined this week as the reigning champions welcome the Rhinos on Thursday to the Totally Wicked Stadium, with the game live on Sky Sports.

“Mark Percival won’t feature this week,” Woolf confirmed during his pre-match press conference. “He’s had a niggle and had something going on there for a number of weeks. 

“It’s one where we thought might improve a little bit quicker than what it has. But it hasn’t and we’re not going to take a significant risk with him. He won’t be playing this week. 

“It’s a little bit of a seeing how it’s coming along. We’re certainly hopeful for Catalans, but it’s not guaranteed at this stage.

“With the little bit of extra time that he’s had and a bit of extra time this week, it will certainly give him a chance.”

Both Jonny Lomax and Morgan Knowles are expected to feature, having missed out on England duties due to injuries. 

Forward pair James Bell and Sione Mata’utia will also miss the clash against Leeds due to suspension.

Back-rower Mata’utia will serve the last of his two-match ban that he picked up during their 28-14 victory over Toulouse. Scotland international Bell received a one-match suspension following the club’s latest win over Hull KR in Super League.

READ MORE: Editor’s column: Summer opportunities and Jacques’ reality

LINKTREE: Love Rugby League