ALEX Walmsley is hoping his appearance in the friendly at Swinton on Sunday will be the final step in his return to fitness.
The forward has had surgery in the off-season – but thanks to the medical team at the club is gunning for next week’s Huddersfield clash.
“At the moment I am looking ready for the start of the year,” he said. “The major test will be if I come through the game at Swinton on Sunday.
“It was touch and go for the start of the season but the staff here have been great with me and got me going. If I come through this weekend then I will be good to go on Friday.”
Saints have strengthened in the off-season and Alex believes that will stand the club in good stead as we progress through 2016.
“I think the coaching staff have done great with the signings,” he continued. “They have strengthened where we were weak last year and brought players in to give us that strength. We are certainly a better team; the likes of Luke Thompson, Greg Richards and Mark Percival aren’t kids any more. They are better players for experience.
“It’s all very well having the best 17 man squad in the competition, but you need more. Once injuries and suspensions kick in you need to have confidence in the players coming in – I firmly believe we have the players that can do this.
“It will be a long season and the boys that will come in are more than up to the task.”
