SAINTS’ on-song second rower Zeb Taia will be out of action for six weeks after a scan on his dislocated shoulder revealed the extent of the damage.

The shoulder popped out after hitting the deck after a 56th minute challenge by Mikolaj Oledzki during last Friday’s win over Leeds and he left the pitch in some visible discomfort.

Taia, who had recently signed a new deal at the club, had been rolling back the years in recent weeks – with his running, handling skills and defence coming to the fore – particularly at Magic and in the Challenge Cup tie against Wakefield.

The 34-year-old will miss a run of games, starting with Friday’s top of the table clash at Warrington, as well as the tough trip at Hull FC and the home clash with Wigan.

Although he will also miss the Challenge Cup semi-final the good news is that he will be fit for the final should Saints get to Wembley.

In his place Saints have the option of moving Morgan Knowles to second row, or switching Joseph Paulo there, with Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook continuing to get more match fitness as the replacement 13.

He will be hoping to be back for the second away clash with Warrington on 9 August.