Wigan star Bevan French will make his long-awaited return to Super League action on Thursday evening against Hull FC, coach Matt Peet has confirmed.
The 26-year-old hasn’t featured for the Warriors since June due to a serious hamstring injury.
Peet confirmed the Australian will feature this week – but refused to reveal in what role, perhaps due to Jai Field’s sparkling form at full-back.
“Yeah, he’ll play,” said Peet, when asked at his weekly pre-match press conference.
“I won’t say where. We won’t be expecting too much from Bev this week, we just want him to get back on the pitch and play.”
Despite the absence of French, who signed from NRL side Parramatta Eels, Peet was eager to praise the role of his wider squad, who have helped the 22-time champions to victory in five of their opening six league fixtures this term.
“It’s a positive that we’ve got more than 17 players who deserve a shirt, but it’s about getting the balance of the right people for the right game,” he said.
After French’s nine-month spell away from action, his coach expressed no concerns about his ability to return to the top level and assist the Warriors in their Super League title fight this term.
“I’ll give him as long as he needs, as they say form is temporary, but class is permanent,” said Peet.
“Credit to him and his family, he’s a great lad. We’re proud of him and the way he’s conducted himself, and it will be great when his moments of brilliance again but at the moment we’re just here to support him.”
Victory over the Airlie Birds on Thursday night could propel Peet’s side to the top of the table if results go in their favour, but they’ll have to withstand the quality of Brett Hodgson’s side who lie in fifth after a strong start to the campaign.
