Whitehaven hooker Thomas Coyle may return to action sooner than previously thought. 

He picked up an injury in Sunday’s game against Dewsbury Rams.

It was initially feared that the hooker, who managed just 10 minutes before being forced off with his injury, would be out for up to six weeks after sustaining what was thought to be a serious calf tear.

However, it is now hoped by the club that he could return to the field before the end of the season.

Haven general manager Amanda Hewer said: “Thankfully, Thomas’s injury isn’t as bad as we first thought.

"It was checked out after the game and we thought it was going to be a bad one.

“But he’s since had it looked at again and we think he’ll be back quicker than six weeks.

“He’ll still miss some game time but, hopefully, he’ll be out there sooner.”

Haven are believed to be keeping their options open ahead of Saturday’s all-important trip to Featherstone Rovers.

If they decided to bring in cover for Coyle they would have to make an approach for players before Friday’s signing deadline.

Players must be registered by Friday in order to play in the final seven games of the season.

Playmakers Danny Craven, on dual-registration from Widnes Vikings, and Jordan Johnstone, on loan from Cumbria Storm, have featured for Haven this year and could be touted for possible returns to the Recreation Ground.