Sam Tomkins hopeful over fitness after inspiring rout for England
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sam Tomkins is adamant that he will be fully fit to inflict more misery on the French on Sunday, but Gareth Ellis's participation depends on the decisions of others.
Tomkins returned after a knee injury to score two tries in the 44-6 win over France on Saturday – the dress rehearsal for the finale of the autumn international series at Salford. He came off after an hour, but insisted that his knee had given him no problems.
"It was good to get that game under my belt," he said. "Luckily, I've not been injured before, so six weeks seemed like a long time."
Tomkins' second try at Hull KR made him England's record try-scorer with 14. Even he admits Mick Sullivan's 41 for Great Britain is a more meaningful target – and he is sufficiently prolific to get close to that figure.
An international review panel will decide today whether Ellis will face a disciplinary hearing over the high tackle that knocked out the French full-back Cyril Stacul. The second-rower was placed on report for the tackle.
Sean O'Loughlin is a doubtful starter for the final with the hamstring strain that kept him out of Saturday's match. That raises the issue of whether the England coach, Steve McNamara, will use any of the players who have not yet had a run in the mini-tournament, such as Rangi Chase or Wigan's Liam Farrell.
McNamara has not been averse to leaving players on the sidelines. It is not something they are used to, he says, and he likes to see how they cope with it.
Salford, who are hosting the first international at their new stadium, hope that the future of the club will be clearer after a meeting of interested parties tomorrow. The City Reds face a winding-up petition in the High Court in January and are desperate for new investment.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments