WHEN news of Jonny Lomax’s ruptured bicep first began to seep out the week before the Challenge Cup semi-final, there was an expectation that the injury would see off the England half back for the rest of the year.

The surprise of the spectators when they saw Lomax’s name etched on the teamsheet was not matched by his team-mates who know how tough the number six is.

And those Saints players also know that, even with one arm heavily strapped, that the 31-year-old Billinger still provides nous and guile on the pitch.

And has shown that in subsequent games against Hull FC and Warrington.

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The injury cannot get any worse by playing – but that is not to say Lomax is not doing it tough not simply playing with the arm, but doing so at the same time that Saints had lost regular 7 Lewis Dodd which put even more responsibility on his shoulders.

Once Will Hopoate returns to full back next week after some hamstring niggles, that will at least allow Lomax to form a partnership with Jack Welsby in the halves going forward.

But pack leader Alex Walmsley hailed the toughness of Saints’ midfield marshal and chief sting puller.

Walmsley said: “It becomes the norm for lads to play busted and you think as long as they can get on the field they will be fine.

“But you don’t really appreciate what players are going through at times.

"Although Jonny would be within his rights to say, ‘I am not right’ that does not enter his head.

“He is selfless in the way he puts his body on the line and makes sure he gets himself out there.

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“No disrespect to others who could come in and play, but Jonny even at 75 per cent is still better than most people in Super League.

"He is just that good – and that good for us.

“For him to do that, if you look at the injury he has got and how he has gone about it, it is just the character and person he is and why he has had the success he has had for us as a team.”