HOWARD Hill is back to bolster the injury-ravaged Swinton Lions team for this weekend's clash with Bramley at Gigg Lane.

The second row forward is poised to make his full debut in the unfamiliar centre berth after recovering from a broken thumb suffered in the pre-season friendly at St Helens.

It is a timely boost for the Lions who have lost both their opening Northern Ford Premiership matches against Hunslet and Doncaster.

There is still no place in Les Holliday's starting line-up for flying winger Richard Henare.

The controversial Kiwi is hoping for the all-clear next week after a problem obtaining a work permit.

The Lions hope to have a new signing on the substitutes' bench on Sunday (kick-off 3pm). Chief executive Tony Barrow was last night in negotiations to sign one of the 'hottest young players in the game,' but was keeping his identity a secret.

"I am hoping to have someone in time for the Bramley match. We are in talks with him and believe he is a very good prospect," he said.

"He can play almost anywhere in the backs, but is best suited to stand off or centre."

Barrow believes the Lions have to wipe the slate clean ahead of Sunday's match and put their horrendous opening behind them.

"We have to start the season again. Players will be returning to the side each week now, so there is light at the end of the tunnel," he added.

"We have to beat Bramley and go on from there."

LIONS: Welsby, Price-Jones, Hill, Evans, Billy, Watson, Gartland, Taylor, McCabe, Eccles, Blease, Cushion, P Barrow. Subs from: Williams, AN Other, Cleary, Rogers, Staziker.

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