JOHN Brain will axe Sateki Tuipulotu from Worcester Rugby Club's squad bound for Wakefield tomorrow if Chris Garrard recovers from flu.

The surprising news will come as a blow for the Tongan who was an ever-present figure last season under Adrian Skeggs and was described by the Australian as Worcester's 'most valuable player'.

But the 30-year-old full-back has struggled with injury this season and in recent matches has lost form with the boot. Craig Chalmers is set to take over kicking responsibilities, should winger Garrard come through a fitness test today, in the National One clash.

Coach Brain played Winston Stanley at full-back in last weekend's National Cup game at Lydney but has a number of options with the Canadian, Garrard and Ben Hinshelwood happy to fill that role.

"If Chris comes through OK, then Sateki will not be involved at Wakefield," he said. "Sateki was in the squad originally only as cover and we are hopeful Chris will recover in time for the game."