World Cup: Sean O'Loughlin hopeful of being available for Steve McNamara
Wigan Warriors loose forward Sean O'Loughlin remains hopeful of being fit for next month's rugby league World Cup.
Last Updated: 12/09/13 1:33pm
O'Loughlin's participation in the illustrious tournament is under threat after the 30-year-old was advised by a specialist to remain in a protective boot for around a month.
The Wigan stalwart will revisit the specialist in three weeks' time and he will then have a greater indication whether he will be fit to play at Old Trafford if the Warriors reach the Grand Final or make Steve McNamara's squad.
"I've got to keep this boot on for another three weeks, then I go back and see the specialist," he told Love Rugby League.
"We'll probably know more then. I'm still hoping to be involved with that [the World Cup].
"It's probably a little out of my hands. I'm just going to try and get as fit as I can towards the end of the year.
Not ideal
"There's a lot of very strong competition for places, and it's not ideal going into that on the back of not playing too much rugby.
"So that's something that I'll probably have to have a chat with Steve McNamara about, a bit closer to the time."
O'Loughlin is gutted he will not be able to play his part for Wigan in the coming weeks, stating lifting silverware at Wembley in the Tetley's Challenge Cup has only served to whet his appetite.
"We had a taste of Wembley a few weeks back, and that was brilliant. Now the play-offs are here, and these are the games you want to be a part of," he continued.
"It's disappointing not to go and be part of it, for the next few weeks anyway.
"The lads have had a good week building up to this game coming up, and when you see them preparing for these special games, it's tough to not be part of it."
