Reports link Warrington's Thomas Mikaele with NRL return

Reports emerged Down Under earlier today that the prop, who joined The Wire from Wests Tigers midway through last year, is set for an immediate return to the NRL with Gold Coast Titans.

Powell did insist that he expected Mikaele to play against Hull FC on Saturday but was unable to say anything beyond that.

However, it is understood the game will be the 25-year-old's last in a Warrington shirt as family issues forced him to seek an immediate release from his deal, which was due to expire at the end of next season.

“I expect him to play on Saturday,” Powell said.

“There’s a little bit of news out there about Tommy but I’ve got nothing to say about it at the moment.

“He’ll play on Saturday and then we’ll take it from there.”

News of Mikaele's potential departure comes as a big blow to The Wire, with Mikaele having played a key role in the side’s unbeaten start to the Super League campaign.

He has scored three tries in the six games so far including one in Friday’s victory over Castleford Tigers and has a total record of four tries in 17 appearances since arriving.

Mikaele scores his third try of 2023 against Castleford on Friday (Image: PA)

The timing of Mikaele’s anticipated exit also causes issues - they will have Josh McGuire available again following Saturday's clash with Hull FC but will still be without the likes of Joe Bullock and James Harrison for several more weeks.

In the shorter-term, Powell confirmed hooker Daryl Clark was "a heavy doubt" to face the Black and Whites as the results of a scan on the knee injury he sustained against Castleford Tigers are awaited.

Josh Drinkwater (quad) will continue to be monitored through the week but Josh Thewlis (head knock) will be available again after clearing return-to-play protocols.

“Daryl’s got a scan today, so we’ll know a little bit more later on this afternoon but he’ll be a heavy doubt I’d say,” Powell said.

“Josh Thewlis will be fine – he’s completed his head knock protocol and will train tomorrow.”

Will Wire look to replace Thomas Mikaele?

Given Mikaele is under contract until the end of 2024, it is understood Warrington will be paid a transfer fee by Gold Coast for his services.

Moving forward, his departure leaves them in a hole in the short to medium term, with Bullock (thumb) and Harrison (knee) expected to spend at least another month on the sidelines.

As such, Warrington are believed to be keen to recruit a replacement for Mikaele to cover his departure and maintain their depth through the middle.

Their bid to do that will now be boosted by the opening up of salary cap space - of which there was already a little to work with - and an overseas quota spot, meaning their search can be extended beyond these shores.