Joe Burgess (Wigan Warriors)
It’s likely that after being left out for the Warriors’ crushing defeat in Castleford last Friday, Joe Burgess will make his return to the Wigan side for tonight’s match against Hull FC. Burgess’ form has been far from perfect so far in 2015, but after being dropped by Shaun Wane last weekend, the flying winger will certainly have a point to prove. Will he bounce back to form against an out-of-sorts Hull FC in a meeting between two teams desperately seeking a win?
Joe Mellor (Widnes Vikings)
Another Joe features on our top five players to watch out for this weekend, with Widnes’ Joe Mellor likely to play a key role in their match against St Helens. With regular captain Kevin Brown out of the side, Mellor will captain the Vikings against the defending champions this evening. Mellor is supremely talented and will have to showcase all of his ability without Brown steering the Widnes ship forward – but will it be enough to secure a win for the Vikings?
Matthew Russell (Warrington Wolves)
As reported in this week’s League Express, Warrington’s Matthew Russell looks set for a lengthy run on the wing, as opposed to the fullback slot he so often appeared in for Warrington last season. With Stefan Ratchford and Kevin Penny now vying for that role, Russell has settled into life on the edge nicely, and was impressive during the Wolves’ win against Hull KR last weekend. In front of the Sky cameras this evening, expect Russell to put in a strong showing.
Shaun Lunt (Hull Kingston Rovers)
The big transfer in Super League this week has seen Shaun Lunt swap Huddersfield for Hull KR, with the hooker signing for Rovers until the end of the season. Incidentally you can read an interview with Lunt on why he made the switch in Monday’s League Express, and that will be published after he has made his debut for the club against Catalans. Will he have a strong debut against the French side?
Tim Smith (Wakefield Trinity Wildcats)
Wakefield star Tim Smith returns to his former club this weekend, as the Wildcats lock horns with Salford Red Devils at the AJ Bell Stadium. Smith’s time there was brief before returning to the Wildcats, but he will go there this Sunday fired up to show Salford who the real Tim Smith is. His performances so far this season have been impressive, and the Australian will have a big say in any likely result for the Wildcats this weekend.
