Michael Luck’s shoulder injury shifts Brian McClennan’s focus towards the Warriors' younger lot
While talking to media reporters on Wednesday, December 21, New Zealand Warrior’s coach Brian McClennan shared that the younger players at the club field a brighter chance in Michael Luck’s injury- prone absence from the franchise.
Luck underwent a surgical procedure to fix his shoulder on Thursday, December 22. His recovery period will keep him off field during the initial part of the National Rugby League (NRL) 2012 season along with three pre-season games in February.
His recovery period has sidelined him for a brief spell of time from Warriors. However, his injury is viewed by the younger lot at the club as a blessing in disguise, who are now being evaluated to step into his shoes until he recovers fully to claim back
his on-field position.
While talking about the available options at the club, McClennan shared that he is considering Luck’s replacement to be made from the back line of the Warriors’ pack. He also showed interest in Junior Warriors skipper Ben Henry, who is also proving his on-field
brilliance well.
He also named a few other possible replacements for Luck which included; Henry, Elijah Taylor and Ukuma Ta’ai. Warriors’ coach reckons that this is a fitting opportunity for all of them to step up their existing level of game and prove their mettle.
McClennan also mentioned that Warriors’ pack will have to get used to playing well without Luck, who will be not around for a good two to three months’ time.
While sharing it with the official website of the Warriors, Luck talked about his shoulder injury, which had troubled him for past two seasons straight.
The second-rower at the club since 2006, shared that he had been dealing with it for quite some time until the end of last season when it rose to unbearable heights. Operation was the only solution to his otherwise aggravating shoulder injury that will reattach
the clavicle.
He also shared that it could not be delayed any longer, which explained why the timing had been likewise, which will spoil his Christmas celebrations.
It will be interesting to see how well the Warriors adapt to playing well in Luck’s absence, which will at least keep him off field for 12 weeks.
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