Willie Isa: Why we need another pre-season before matches

Warrington CEO Karl Fitzpatrick has already warned they may need to be ready to go straight back into action as soon as Super League gets the green-light from the government to resume – with midweek games expected in a crammed campaign. Currently, players are training alone at home during the nationwide lockdown.

Forward Isa says he is happy to tackle a congested schedule but reckons they will need up to a month training as a group – with wrestling, tackling and physical contact – to get them ready for the demands.

“Most of the boys want to play rugby league again but physically, I don’t think we can go straight into it,” he told Sky Sports’ Golden Point podcast. “I think we need a mini pre-season, three or four, weeks, to go into it.

“If we have to play a couple of games a week, it has to be like that. I think we need a good base, going into many games during the week.

“The sensible thing is give us a pre-season, and then throw at us anything. I’m no expert, I’m just a player, I just hope we get a pre-season before we start.”

Leeds chief Gary Hetherington has told players to expect midweek matches and a campaign which may run into December once the 2020 campaign restarts.

“Give me a pre-season and I’ll do it,” said Isa.

I’ve no problem with trying to finish a season in November, but please allow players to prepare, physically, as at team and we’ll be ready for it.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m in good nick. But our sport is unique, it’s very physical and you need that solid base.”

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