TOMMY Makinson returned to the fold yesterday after missing the big Wigan derby on Friday with injury.

The international wing played centre in the youthful side that lost at home to Wakefield after scan results revealed that there was no risk of worsening the swelling on his knee.

With Saints being threadbare in the outside backs for most of the year – and with wing Regan Grace out for the season – it came as a relief to get a positive result.

In a backline full of teenagers, Makinson was a leader vocally, in carrying the ball and defensively, and also chipped in with the goalkicking.

Coach Kristian Woolf said: “Tommy was unable to play against Wigan and was a big loss to us when you look at the number of outside backs we have out already.

“That was a real blow to us. There was swelling on his knee so we got it scanned.

"Although the swelling meant he was unable to play against Wigan and that was the right decision, there was no risk of further damage.

“He put his hand up early saying he wanted to play against Wakefield.

“Not being able to play against Wigan – a team and place he loves to play – was a real blow to him more than anyone else.

“He put his hand up to say he wanted to be part of this team and took on some leadership there.”

Of the other outside backs Konrad Hurrell missed the game on Monday, but is fit despite picking up a hand injury against Wigan. 

Will Hopoate has been ear-marked for a return in the play-offs.

There are still hopes that Mark Percival could feature before the play-offs - and having not played since May then Saturday's game against Tououse would be his last chance.