Wigan trio set for return

Wigan could be at full strength for the Powergen Challenge Cup final on Saturday week, with their trio of injured three-quarters nearing fitness.

Centre Martin Aspinwall, who pulled a hamstring in the semi-final win over Warrington, is on course to face St Helens at the Millennium Stadium and he could be joined by long-term casualties Brian Carney and David Hodgson, according to assistant coach Denis Betts.

Great Britain winger Carney has been out since breaking his ankle in the opening round against Widnes in February while Hodgson suffered a ruptured Achilles in a pre-season testimonial match three months ago.

"Every day is getting them closer," said Betts. "They're climbing a ladder and they're close to the top now."

The trio could even make their comebacks in Friday's Super League match against Widnes at the JJB Stadium but Cardiff appears to be a more realistic target.

"How quickly they get to the point where they will play is in their hands," added Betts.

"The medical staff are pushing them quite hard and there is a possibility that we could everybody available before next week.

"They're on course and they're ready to play. It's a matter of how soon do you test them. We don't really want to put them under pressure.

"We would rather have everybody available for the real big game. Your good players will perform on the day. Another week could be a massive bonus for them or it could be a big setback if we push them a week too early."

Betts revealed the club would have no qualms about playing 18-year-old winger Desi Williams against Widnes.

The young Londoner was substituted 11 minutes into the second half of Friday's 42-28 win at Castleford after his defensive errors let the home side in for three tries.

"We've sat down and talked with him," said Betts. "We've got to get him back on the bike.

"Desi's positional sense was a bit out and he ran into a winger who was a bit hot. But he will get better for it. He knows what he did wrong and he knows he can improve."