WIGAN'S 'Bionic Man' Sean Long has been cleared for a comeback 16 months after he feared his career was over.

Rated as one of the brightest young talents in the game, 20 year old Long was left writhing in agony after tearing both cruciate and medial ligaments in his left knee.

Surgeons had to totally reconstruct the knee using a section of hamstring removed from his thigh.

He said: "When it happened I was convinced my career was over and I was heartbroken. I have never been in as much pain in my life.

"It has been a living nightmare and I have got to make up for lost time."

Long who was forced to miss the recent Great Britain Academy Tour to New Zealand has been been given the go-ahead to resume full training.

His target is the Boxing Day challenge match against Super League Champions St Helens at Central Park.

Long added: "That is my first priority and then I want to establish a regular spot in the Wigan first team. Next season is crucial to me."

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