Michael McIlorum is in a race against time.
Willie Peters admits it would be a cruel end to Michael McIlorum’s Super League career if he is unable to overcome an ankle fracture and feature again this season.
However, the Hull KR head coach remains cautiously optimistic that the hard-hitting hooker could make a remarkable comeback before the end of the campaign and finish an illustrious and decorated top-flight career on his own terms.
The 37-year-old suffered the injury during training in preparations for the top-of-the-table clash with Wigan Warriors, with Jez Litten going on to play for 80 minutes and Bill Leyland an unused interchange in the 10-6 statement win.
While McIlorum has hinted he could continue playing part-time in France after the 2025 campaign, he now faces a race against time to feature again in Super League for Hull KR.
The two-time Grand Final winner defied the odds earlier this year by featuring at Wembley following a torn bicep, only to return to rehabilitation after the historic Challenge Cup triumph.
“He’s got a fracture in his foot, and he’s going to have some time on the sidelines. We’re just hopeful that he can come back this season – we’re not sure,” head coach Peters said.
“We need to see how that responds, but we’d love to have him back. We certainly don’t want Micky to finish his career that way.
“Knowing him, if anyone can do it, he certainly can – it’s just a matter of waiting to see how that heals, and whether he needs an operation or not. It’s with the medical team at the moment.
“Either way, it could be pretty much the same timeframe. Like I say, he’s a chance to come back, because it’s him, but also, he may not come back this season.
“He doesn’t deserve to end that way – it would be cruel if that happens.”