SAINTS prop Alex Walmsley has had surgery and is recovering after suffering a fractured bone in his neck.

The 27-year-old came off the field in the second half of the match at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

No timescale has been set for his return but he will make a full recovery and return this season.

Saints coach Justin Holbrook said: “It is not good. He has had all his scans done and had an operation. He has had a fracture of a bone in his neck, which was not good news for anyone.

"It is a massive blow to our team given the fact that Alex is the best front rower in Super League. He has been in great form already this year after a good World Cup.

“But importantly, the news that Alex will make a full recovery from the injury is one we all welcome.

“Alex has had an operation to correct the damage and will now begin his recovery led by our medical team. We all wish him well.

“The surgeon has told both Alex and the Club that he will make a full recovery and his neck will be stronger than before.

"That is pleasing because it can be a worry because we play a brutal, physical sport here.

"I went to visit him yesterday in hospital and he is sitting up and as well as can expected after a neck operation.

"It is not good news short term, but long term it is because it all went well and there is no issue of him not playing again. It will be this year but we don't know when, but it won't be any time soon.

"We were hoping to have a timeframe, but we haven't got one - it is a case of having scans every four weeks to see how the bone has healed.

He continued: “We want to wish Alex a speedy and safe recovery and can’t wait to have him back on the field with the boys – but only when he has fully recovered.

“We have a strong squad at Saints and I’m sure that the rest of the team will step up in Alex’ absence.”