Wigan Warriors preview

Warriors must learn to live without stand-off Barrett

By Rob Lancaster   Last updated: 4th February 2009  

Wigan Warriors preview

O'Loughlin: Injury-hit 2008

Perhaps the bigger question mark for the Warriors loyal support is just who is going to fill the sizeable void left by the return of Trent Barrett Down Under

Quotes of the week

In: Mark Riddell (Parramatta), Amos Roberts (Sydney Roosters).
Out: Trent Barrett (Cronulla), Mickey Higham (Warrington), Mark Calderwood (Hull), Liam Colbon (Hull KR).
Odds to win Grand Final: 12-1
Odds for Wooden Spoon: 100-1
First Sky live fixture: v Harlequins (away) February 28

Related links

Teams

Also see

Having finished sixth and fourth in his two full seasons in charge of the Warriors, Brian Noble will be looking to continue the upward trend in 2009.

The former Great Britain boss has seen his side come close in the play-offs without managing to find a way past the top two - Leeds and St Helens.

Once again the squad looks capable of mounting a strong challenge in both the engage Super League and the Carnegie Challenge Cup.

Former policeman Noble will order his team to play disciplined rugby, particularly on their travels having seen just three of their 11 defeats last season come at the JJB Stadium.

The off-season has seen more going than coming, though the arrival of Mark Riddell from Parramatta Eels, a player Noble has been chasing for a while, should add a touch of quality behind the pack.

The signing of the goal-kicking hooker meant the departure of Mickey Higham, who has made the short move to Warrington despite playing a prominant role for Wigan in the play-offs last year.

Perhaps the bigger question mark for the Warriors loyal support is just who is going to fill the sizeable void left by the return of Trent Barrett Down Under.

A superstar signing, the stand-off lived up to his billing with some world-class displays during his two years in the English game before heading home for family reasons.

Tim Smith - benefiting from a settling-in period after being signed late last season - may be charged with the task of stepping into the shoes of Barrett.

Like his compatriot, Australian Cameron Phelps is another who will be heading into his first full season with the Cherry and Whites, whilst Karly Pryce is ready to re-launch his rugby career after an injury plagued few years.

With Sean O'Loughlin also fit again after shoulder problems and Thomas Leuluai fresh from helping New Zealand become world champions, the signs point to another year of progression for Noble's troops.

The key to their hopes may not lie in the experienced members of the squad but their young players coming through. The likes of Sam and Joel Tomkins, as well as Lee Mossop and Darrell Goulding, will be given plenty of chances. Even at a club so desperate to restore former glories, patience is crucial.

Phil Clarke's one to watch - Mark Riddell

Handed the number nine jersey to replace Mickey Higham, Riddell comes with a reputation as an entertainer.

His nickname 'piggy' tells you a bit about his body shape, but don't be fooled by that. He is explosive, dynamic and has great 'eyes'. He is key to Wigan being more dangerous around the play-the-ball area.

Post to your View!

Be the first to post a comment on this story

Add Comment*

Send us your views

Are you a Sky Sports subscriber?

*All fields required, your email address will be kept private