Saints boss Mallinder confident Myler will be fit for Sale trip

SIDELINED - Stephen Myler suffered a hamstring strain and was forced to watch Sunday's LV= Cup Final against Exeter from the stands (Picture: Linda Dawson)

Jim Mallinder is optimistic Stephen Myler will be fit for Saturday’s trip to Sale after the fly-half was forced to pull out of the squad before Saints’ LV= Cup final defeat.

Myler was ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Will Hooley, who was set to be his replacement, also failed to make the game due to a head injury.

That meant Glenn Dickson started the match at fly-half, with youngster Sam Olver called onto the bench as cover.

But Mallinder is optimistic Myler and Hooley will be back in time for this weekend’s Aviva Premiership game in Salford.

“It was unfortunate that both of those had to pull out that close to kick-off and that doesn’t help your preparations, but I’m hopeful both will be available for next week,” said the director of rugby.

Dickson kicked a penalty and missed a conversion as he put in a creditable performance in the 15-8 loss to Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park.

And Mallinder was impressed with how the Kiwi kicker handled the occasion.

“I think he did well in difficult conditions,” said Mallinder.

“Exeter’s linespeed was particularly good. I thought he carried the ball well, defended well and he kicked his penalty.

“I was pleased with him stepping in at the last minute.”