By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:51, Friday, 11 July 2008

Ged Stokes says he has no fears at firing international prospect Gregg McNally in to action at Sheffield tonight – just five days before he jets out with England Under-18s for their tour of Australia.

Some fans had speculated that the teenage scrum-half may be rested at Don Valley (8pm), in case he picks up a knock that puts his tour place in jeopardy.

But coach Stokes has been hugely impressed with the youngster since giving him his first-team break against Salford in May, and does not expect him to be distracted against the Eagles.

“Gregg’s been pretty quiet about the whole Australia thing,” said Stokes. “He’s been focused on our training. Though obviously he will be excited about it, like any kid would. He probably can’t sleep at night.”

With Carl Rudd, Tane Manihera and Leroy Joe all competing for playmaker roles, Stokes is not targeting new half-backs in McNally’s absence.

And he revealed that he had considered springing a big surprise tonight by naming new young recruit Tyrone Dalton, who started the season with Workington Town, in the squad. But he has opted to leave him in the reserve-grade at present.

“He was in the frame,” the coach confirmed. “Tyrone’s come on leaps and bounds but I don’t think he’s quite ready. He’s tough and he has a go.

“Some players could step up now but it would be a little detrimental to their development.”

Sheffield reached the NL1 play-offs last term, in their first season following promotion, and are on course to repeat the feat.

“They have tested everyone they’ve played and even their loses have been close,” Stokes added. “They are a big, robust team, probably the most physically imposing in the competition.”

Dalton’s reserve-grade half-back partner Marc Bainbridge is out after contention to take McNally’s place after breaking a bone in his wrist in last week’s big home win over Hunslet. It also means second-string boss Dave Smith must reshuffle for tomorrow’s top-of-the-table clash with Leigh at Hilton Park.

Manager Dave Farrell said: “To lose Marc at this stage of the season is the last thing we wanted. His goal kicking’s been massive and his contribution as playmaker and pivot will also be missed.”