The Wigan Warriors squad is over in Portugal for pre-season training at a pivotal point in their preparations for the new season especially for the likes of former Warrington Wolves star Mike Cooper.
Cooper left Warrington mid-way through the 2022 season and featured as Wigan reached the semi-finals only just missing out on the Grand Final after a defeat to Leeds Rhinos at the DW Stadium.
The former Warrington prop was set to be a key player for the club in 2023 but suffered an ACL injury after a tackle from Morgan Knowles in the Good Friday derby against St Helens.
Cooper missed the rest of the season but the former Warrington man is set to return soon after a return to training recently.
Over in Portugal, star man Harry Smith spoke to the club’s website about the impact of the camp: “It’s been a productive first day. I’ve enjoyed the first weeks of being back and seeing familiar faces as well as meeting the new lads who have already brought a lot to training so far. Hopefully, the intensity we had today will continue growing for the rest of the camp.
“The most important benefit is strengthening the camaraderie and togetherness of the squad whilst building our physical fitness. A change in environment improves players and makes them train that little bit harder, and at the end of the camp bonds will have been made.
