Wigan Warriors coach Shaun Wane heaped praise upon Pat Richards following the winger's 18-point haul during his side's 38-6 victory over Salford City Reds last night.

Richards, who had not played a first-team match for four months, scored two tries and kicked five goals in the emphatic DW Stadium win.

"It's great to have him back," said Wane. "He only played 40 minutes for our Under-20s but he said he felt good and I had no qualms about putting him back in.

"He's got a big smile on his face, he's really pleased he's got that game under his belt.

"He's a great player and a good asset for us on our left edge. No disrespect to Josh [Charnley] but there were certain kicks tonight that you knew Paddy was going to get."

Wigan are now three points clear of Warrington Wolves at the top of the Super League table with one round of regular-season games remaining.