JOE WESTERMAN is set for an extended stay on the sidelines after picking up a worrying concussion issue.
The Castleford Tigers forward left the field early in his side’s 34-0 drubbing by Wakefield Trinity earlier this month, and did not return for the win over Wigan Warriors last weekend.
Westerman was again not included in Ryan Carr’s 20-man squad for the clash against Hull FC on Friday night nor the squad for Hull KR tonight, leading to some concern over his wellbeing.
Asked about the 36-year-old’s absence, Carr revealed that the forward will be out for some time after suffering worrying concussion symptoms.
“Joe Westerman picked up a head knock in the Wakefield game which was his second in a month,” Carr said.
“He started getting some symptoms there. He saw a specialist and will be out for quite a while by the looks of it.
“We need to manage his health and safety first and foremost. He will have to get through a lengthy process to return to play.
“With head injuries, there’s a real sensitivity around it which is understandable.”