Coach Phil Veivers says the arrival of on-loan star Matt Gee will bring competition for places at Workington Town – which he thinks will be key to success.

Veivers’ injury-ravaged squad has been boosted by the arrival of Salford Red Devils forward Gee, who will go straight into the squad for Sunday’s visit of Featherstone, ko 3pm.

But Veivers says the addition of Gee, plus the return of Brett Carter, Declan Hulme and possibly Alex Szostak, will help players realise they need to fight for their shirts.

He said: “Competition is crucial because we get into a very easy position, due to the injuries, where we know who is getting which shirt without having to really perform.

“This is why I wanted a squad of 30 players at the beginning of the year so the guys have to perform on the field and in training to keep their shirt.

“Obviously we know we need more bodies in to really make that happen.”

Gee, a 21-year-old second rower has joined on a month’s loan.

Veivers has said Liam McAvoy will definitely miss out this weekend with his shoulder injury and there is still doubt over Jarrad Stack following his concussion last Sunday.

Szostak could play for the first time this season against Featherstone if he is passed fit.

Veivers added: “He had an operation on his knee in the close season so has been in rehab ever since.

“He had his first full hit out on Tuesday night so we will see how it goes for the rest of the week.”