David Armstrong Poised for Super League Return as Leigh Leopards Visit Catalans Dragons

Key facts

• David Armstrong suffered an ACL injury at Leeds Rhinos on June 27 last year.
• He scored a try in his return for the Reserves in a 38-22 loss to Huddersfield Giants last weekend.
• Leigh Leopards travel to Catalans Dragons on Saturday seeking a fourth successive victory.
• Prop Robbie Mulhern has a calf tear that could sideline him for three to four weeks.
• Centres Umyla Hanley and Tesi Niu could also return against the Dragons.
• Bailey Hodgson and Keanan Brand are close to returning from injury.

Long-Awaited Comeback on the Cards

David Armstrong could make his long-awaited return to Betfred Super League action when Leigh Leopards face Catalans Dragons at the Gilbert Brutus Stadium on Saturday. The Australian full-back has not played for the first team since succumbing to an anterior cruciate ligament injury at Leeds Rhinos on June 27 last year. Armstrong made a try-scoring return for the Reserves in a 38-22 defeat to Huddersfield Giants last weekend, signalling his readiness. He was named in Adrian Lam’s 21-strong squad for that game and now appears poised to complete his recovery by featuring against the Dragons.

Lam Confirms Armstrong's Progress

Leigh head coach Adrian Lam confirmed Armstrong is in contention. “Davie will be in the picture,” Lam said. “He was a bit sore the next day but he got through the game okay.” The coach acknowledged the decision is whether to play Armstrong in some capacity this week or wait another week. “But to have him back playing is a good sign. He was pretty nervous going into the game,” Lam added. Lam, who has suffered the same injury three times, empathised with Armstrong’s mental hurdles. “It does damage your confidence because it is all about knowing it is going to be okay? Is it going to happen again? Is it right? So, to get through it has given him a lot of belief it is going to be okay. He scored a great try too.”

Injury Woes Persist for Leigh

Despite Armstrong’s imminent return, Leigh’s early-season injury issues have not entirely cleared. Prop Robbie Mulhern has a calf problem that Lam described as not looking good. “It could be a minimum of three to four weeks. I won’t know fully until we get the grading of his tear,” Lam said. However, there is positive news on other fronts. Centres Umyla Hanley and Tesi Niu could also return against the Dragons. Bailey Hodgson and Keanan Brand are close to pushing for their own comebacks.

Leigh Aim for Fourth Straight Win

Leigh travel to Perpignan bidding for a fourth successive victory, a run that would solidify their position in the Super League standings. The Dragons, playing at home, will be a formidable opponent at the Gilbert Brutus Stadium. Lam expressed optimism about the squad’s trajectory. “We are travelling in the right direction as a squad. To have our best team in the next couple of weeks will be refreshing and give everyone a lot of confidence.”

Armstrong's Journey Back

Armstrong, a former Newcastle Knight, had been a key attacking threat before his injury. His return adds depth to Leigh’s backline as they push for consistency. The full-back’s recovery has been closely monitored, and his try-scoring return in the reserves suggests he has regained his sharpness. Lam’s cautious approach reflects the delicate nature of ACL rehabilitation.

What Lies Ahead for Leigh

With Armstrong, Hanley, and Niu potentially available, Leigh’s squad is nearing full strength. The next few weeks could see the team field its best lineup for the first time this season. Lam’s priority will be managing minutes for returning players while maintaining momentum. The clash against Catalans Dragons represents a significant test of Leigh’s depth and resilience.

The bottom line

• David Armstrong is set to make his Super League return after an ACL injury sidelined him since June 27 last year.
• Leigh Leopards are aiming for a fourth straight win when they face Catalans Dragons on Saturday.
• Prop Robbie Mulhern is out for at least three to four weeks with a calf tear.
• Centres Umyla Hanley and Tesi Niu could also return against the Dragons.
• Adrian Lam confirmed Armstrong’s mental confidence has been boosted by his reserve team performance.
• Leigh’s squad is expected to be at full strength in the coming weeks.