Wigan Warriors receive triple boost ahead of Hull FC clash

Bevan French is in line to make his first appearance of the season when Wigan Warriors meet on Thursday night. The full-back has been named in the Cherry and Whites’ 21-man squad and he represents one of three changes made by Matt Peet.

The news won’t thrill Hull fans who will travel to the DW Stadium in the hope of seeing their side pick up their fourth straight win in all competitions and move level with Wigan in the Super League table. However, Peet will be keen to bring the Australian back into contention and French’s presence will certainly provide a boost for Thursday’s hosts.

French returned from Australia late in pre-season following the death of his mother and as a result he has sat out Wigan’s first seven games in all competitions. However, after a disrupted campaign last year, making just five appearances for the Warriors, he’ll no doubt be keen to make up for lost time and hit the ground running this week.

Jai Field has established himself as Wigan’s first choice full-back in the absence of French and Peet must decide how the Australian’s return impacts his line-up. Iain Thornley has also returned to Wigan’s 21-man squad after overcoming the ankle injury he picked up in round one against Hull KR.

Brad Singleton also returns after completing a two-match suspension, but Thomas Leuluai drops out after receiving a one-game ban earlier this week. Kai Pearce-Paul misses out through injury after picking up a leg issue last time out against Salford Red Devils.

Bevan French, Jake Bibby, Zak Hardaker, Iain Thornley, Liam Marshall, Cade Cust, Brad Singleton, Sam Powell, Patrick Mago, Willie Isa, Liam Farrell, John Bateman, Morgan Smithies, Harry Smith, Oliver Partington, Ethan Havard, Liam Byrne, Joe Shorrocks, Jai