By BILLY GRIMSHAW
WIGAN Warriors coach Shaun Wane has given a disappointing update on the fitness of star centre Oliver Gildart, saying he could be out for up to three months after injuring his back in the loss at Headingley last Friday.
Gildart had to leave the field after complaining of neck and back pain following a crusher tackle from Brett Ferres. The challenge resulted in a sin binning for the Rhinos second rower and he has subsequently been slapped with a grade E charge from the RFL, which could mean a ban of up to eight games.
“He’s seeing a neurologist.” Wane said of Gildart. “It’s a serious back injury and he’ll be out for two to three months.”
The Wigan coach was diplomatic when discussing the tackle from Ferres, saying: “We’ll let the powers that be deal with it. My job is to get the team ready for Thursday.”
Wane said he is hopeful Anthony Gelling will be fit to replace Gildart in their match day squad for the eagerly anticipated clash with table toppers Castleford at the DW Stadium. Liam Farrell is another the Warriors expect to prove his fitness in time to play a part in the game.
