Warrington Wolves Injury Update: Ashton and Bentley Status Revealed
Warrington Wolves head coach Sam Burgess has provided an important injury update regarding two players, Matty Ashton and James Bentley, ahead of their highly anticipated match against St Helens.
Matty Ashton’s Recovery Status
Matty Ashton, who has been recovering from an ACL injury sustained last May, will not participate in the Round One showdown. Despite his eagerness to return to the field, Burgess has decided to keep Ashton out for at least another fortnight. Ashton aimed to be ready for the game, but he was not included in the 21-man squad released prior to the match.
“He was actually really close,” Burgess noted. “With the extra week off next week, this decision was about risk versus reward.”
Ashton is expected to return to play in Round Three against Wakefield Trinity, scheduled for February 28. His impressive track record includes scoring nine tries in his last seven encounters with St Helens, contributing significantly to Warrington’s victories.
James Bentley’s Injury Update
New signing James Bentley will also miss the St Helens game. He suffered a back spasm during his debut against Sheffield Eagles, prompting further evaluation. “James is seeing a specialist today,” Burgess said, expressing concern as Bentley continues to experience discomfort.
The coach emphasized the importance of caution, stating, “We can’t be too careful, but he’s pretty sore.” Bentley’s return timeline remains uncertain, dependent on his recovery from the injury.
Returning Players to Boost the Squad
Despite the absences, the Warrington Wolves will welcome back several key players for the upcoming match. Hooker Sam Powell, who recently underwent shoulder surgery, has recovered and is set to return. Additionally, Luke Yates and James Harrison are back from their respective injuries, while new recruit Toafofoa Sipley will also make his debut after serving a four-match suspension.
- Sam Powell: Returned from shoulder surgery
- Luke Yates: Cleared from concussion
- James Harrison: Fully recovered from calf injury
- Toafofoa Sipley: Set to debut after suspension
Conclusion
The Warrington Wolves face a challenging game against St Helens as they navigate these player injuries. Burgess’s cautious approach to Ashton and Bentley’s situations reflects a commitment to long-term player health and performance. Fans look forward to seeing returning players make an impact as the season progresses.
