Josh Charnley has been told to up his game by Wigan Warriors coach Shaun Wane as he fights to regain his place against Castleford Tigers on Sunday.
The England winger was dropped after Wigan’s loss to Sydney Roosters in the World Club Challenge.
Wane was critical of his side’s performance against Sydney and identified Charnley as one of those who disappointed.
“What is really important for me is that Josh Charnley learns he needs to perform,” he told BBC Radio Manchester.
“He was dropped. He knows that and knows he needs to improve to get back into the team.
“I’m very comfortable doing that and giving Dom Manfredi his chance.”
The Warriors registered their first win of the term last weekend with a 46-24 victory over Wakefield.
They face a tough ask this weekend, with the Tigers currently leading the Super League table after winning their three opening matches.
The Tigers’ good form was a surprise to Wane but he acknowledged that Wigan had a tough task ahead of them.
“We all know that Daryl Powell is a smart coach and he has got himself a workmanlike team who all play hard for each other,” he said.
“They have some really good players and it is a difficult place to go mentally and our players need to rise above that and go and perform.
“I will pick my best team for Sunday because this is our biggest test so far.”
9 of the players who contested for the World Challenge title played in last week’s clash with Wakefield and last year’s Super League champions are determined to put the disappointment of Australia behind them.
Liam Farrell was among those dropped from the squad, only to ask Wane let them play to make amends for the loss to the Roosters.
“It was never going to be a fantastic performance from us (last week) but we will get better and just to get the two points was enough for me,” Wane said.
“I hope we are mentally strong enough to play our own game and if we attack within our own processes we will trouble them.
“It has the makings of a great game.”
Image courtesy of Super League TV via YouTube, with thanks.
