REVENGE is a strong word, but is rightly being used a lot in anticipation of Sunday's first test match between England and Samoa at the Brick Community Stadium, Wigan.

I know Shaun Wane - and this will be real, not just a marketing ploy!

England were of course beaten by Samoa in the 2022 World Cup Semi-final by a Stephen Crichton Golden Point drop goal.

England had more than enough chances to win that game, and will have been ruing the missed opportunity since.

This is the first of a two-game series, with the second fixture being held at Headingley Stadium in Leeds next Saturday.

Sunday will be broadcast live on BBC2 with a 2.30pm KO.

Despite the previous result the last time the two countries met, this will be a blood and thunder affair.

Samoa are bringing a very strong squad, captained by recently crowned four-times in a row NRL Premier champion, Penrith Panthers halfback Jarome Luai.

Miraculously, skipper Luai is one of only four survivors of that semi-final victory over England, and will certainly be one player we must take care of.

His pace and dancing feet are capable of turning any defence inside out if allowed.

Speaking of fast feet the former Dally M winner and NRL superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, will make his Samoa debut since switching allegiance from New Zealand.

Also on debut is Queensland back rower Jeremiah Nanai , who was actually part of the winning Australia side that eventually beat Samoa in the 2022 World Cup final.

Betfred Super League fans will see some familiar faces too, as Hull FC’s new marquee signing John Asiata and Leigh Leopards Ricky Leutele will be part of the new look visitors.

Also, Leeds Rhinos fans will get to watch their new 2025 signing Keenan Palasia for the first time on these shores.

England however have their own young guns ready to do battle.

For example the 2024 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel winner Mikey Lewis will be out to show what he can do on the world stage again, after a great series against Tonga last autumn.

Grand Final winner and young player of the year Junior Nsemba will make his international debut following a remarkable rise with the Wigan Warriors.

Shaun Wane has opted to go with some of his ‘old guard’ ahead of some of stars of this years Betfred Super League.

Hull KR pair Jez Litten and Elliott Minchella are two players who made the initial squad, to be later cut.

Can’t say I agree - and frankly still struggle with some of the selected players at International level.

England will have a lot of NRL experience however, with the likes of Dom Young, Victor Radley and the outstanding Herbie Farnworth all committed to wearing the St George’s cross for the next fortnight.

Sam Tomkins will take on his new role as England Team Manager, and will no doubt be a great mentor to have in and around camp.

I think we are set for a great series. England are favourites with England Principal Partners Betfred.

They are 1/4 in fact with Samoa at 3/1 for the win. I’m going for an England triumph and how about Warrington's in form flyer Matty Ashton at 8/1 for the opening try?

Reverting back to the domestic game for a minute and particularly St Helens: it’s an anxious time for the fans at the moment as they wait to hear if there’ll be any further signings ahead of the 2025 Betfred Super League campaign.

Sione Matautia’s confirmed departure leaves another big hole in a Saints pack that as I have been saying needs bolstering if we are to genuinely challenge for silverware next season.

I’m sure Wello and the top brass are on it big time and will be ready to put the club right where they belong ie back at the top of the table.