ST HELENS prop Noah Stephens will have an operation later this month on the shoulder injury he suffered at Castleford in May, which was a severe form of nerve damage that saw him lose the use of his left arm.
The prop, who celebrated his 22nd birthday on Saturday, had been expected to eventually inherit a first-team spot from Alex Walmsley, who could be playing his last season in 2027.
But the seriousness of the injury has raised the question of whether he will be able to play again at the highest level.
Stephens father Phil has given some details of his son’s progress and impending operation on the Red Vee Saints’ supporters’ forum website.
He wrote: “After more tests, neuro physio and this morning’s consultation this is where he is at.
“Surgery on 23 October to transfer nerves from the triceps and forearm to graft to the spine at C5.
“Whilst the C6 nerve has shown signs of recovery they are going graft nerves from his wrist and hand has he is cut open anyway and it will only benefit recovery long term.
“Shoulder must be completely immobilised for three weeks. Good luck sleeping son.
“Recovery is 9-12 months. Best outcome expected is to regain approximately 80 per cent of his original range of movement.
“It will never be the same again. Rehab is anyone’s guess but probably by that point, which is 13 to 16 months post-injury, it could be at least three to six months to regain this muscle mass lost.
“There is a possibility he will never play again.
“At least the consultant gave it him straight. I hope for him he’s back for 2028.”
