WILL Hopoate’s return to action after missing the first four rounds of Saints’ Super League campaign has presented coach Paul Wellens with a welcome selection headache.

The 30-year-old Tongan international showed some classy touches in the win over Huddersfield Giants last week, epitomised by the way he instinctively swept up and returned a dangerous grubber in the closing stages of a tight encounter.

The pedigree of the former Canterbury Bulldogs and New South Wales State of Origin player has never been doubted, and his performances in the red vee have backed that up.

However, with those appearances limited to just 12 last season – due to repeated niggles with a troublesome hamstring – it has been a frustrating time all round.

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His return to the fold has been managed since his previous appearance in the World Club Challenge win over Penrith.

And to that end – even though fit for the Hull game - he was given an additional week of training ahead last Thursday’s trip to Huddersfield where he seamlessly slotted in at centre in place of Mark Percival.

Coach Wellens said: “I really commend Will’s performance.

“He has had a tough 12-18 months and we have been really frustrated that we haven’t had a player of Will’s quality out on the field more.

“But nobody has been more frustrated than Will himself.

“What has to be understood is what we see week in, week out – and that is a player that works so hard and is so committed to getting himself fit and out on the field.

“When he does come out on to the field and performs like he did at Huddersfield, considering he has not played much rugby recently, just gives an indication of his dedication and work ethic.

“And just like players like Konrad Hurrell and Curtis Sironen, (back from suspension) he shows how influential he is on the team when he is out there.

“If we can get Will out there regularly and consistently it is going to improve us immensely.”

Hopoate’s return does leave the coach with a selection choice ahead of Friday’s game against Wakefield – especially given the way Jon Bennison has performed in the opening rounds when the backline has been stretched due to injury and suspension.

But that is the sort of headache Wellens wants as the side begins to slowly build into another title-defending campaign.

“With Mark Percival probably back from a tight calf this week and Jon Bennison doing a great job on the wing, plus Tommy Mak a seasoned pro on the other – it is the kind of selection headache that I am looking forward to,” Wellens said.