Powerhouse forward Maurie Fa'asavalu is already a major doubt for the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final against Hull FC at Wembley a week on Saturday.
The Samoan, who has missed the last three fixtures with a hamstring problem, had been expected to return to the starting line-up on Sunday when Saints visit Huddersfield Giants in the penultimate round of engage Super League X111 but has suffered a s
etback in his bid for full fitness.
"Maurie has pulled up a couple of times in training and will not figure in our plans this weekend, " said head coach Daniel Anderson.
But half back Sean Long, who missed the game at Harlequins on Sunday after picking up a minor leg injury during training, will be back and so, too, will club skipper Paul Sculthorpe as he attempts to stake a claim for a place in the Wembley squad.
Sculthorpe, whose contract will not be renewed at the end of his current testimonial year, will be hoping to produce the kind of form in the final few weeks of the season - not to mention steering clear of further injury – which will put him firmly in the shop window.
Salford City Reds – coached by former Saints' boss Shaun McRae - and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have both expressed an interest in the former double Man of Steel winner but whether they are prepared to take a risk with a player who has been ravaged by a series of injuries over recent years is a matter of conjecture.
Under the salary cap clubs cannot negotiate a pay-as-you- play agreement for players but a lucrative in bonus is one incentive which may prove an attraction.
Scully has been a great servant and ambassador for the sport and I am sure he will bring a wealth of experience and know-how to most Super League club, providing they are willing to take a gamble on his fitness.
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