SAINTS wing Tommy Makinson is expected to be back in action before the end of the Super 8s in the late summer after suffering a small break in his fibula and ankle ligament damage.

But coach Keiron Cunningham expressed his relief after initially fearing it could have been much worse.

James Roby will see a hand specialist after suffering an uncommon dislocation - and again Cunningham was relieved because there was no break in there.

Cunningham said: "Tommy's was a real big one, he's broken his leg and injured a ligament in his ankle.

"If you ask me personally I think he's dodged a bullet. We have a delayed feed to watch games on television at the game and as I saw it I thought it was a Luke Walsh type injury.

"I was shocked when he stood up. He's gone in and had surgery and his leg plated.

"It's not a significant break, but they've done a bit if work on his ankle as well. Hopefully Tommy will feature again at the end of the year, before the end of the Super 8s, if things go to plan.

"He's been one of the standout wingers of the competition."

Matty Dawson, who is fit again, will come in to replace Makinson on the wing.

Meanwhile they are awaiting further reports on Roby's injury.

"He has not broken his hand, which is a massive bonus, but he has dislocated something.

"He's had a scan and we will see the hand specialist "We will move on and play and not spend too much time moaning about injuries.

"I have faith in my squad.

"Dougie Charnock is fit again so if Roby is out then he can be called upon," Cunningham said.