WIGAN half-back Julian O'Neill is still expected to line up against Hull on Friday despite reportedly being on the verge of a move to Widnes.

The Vikings have been desperate for a new stand off since losing Steve Carter and Craig Weston and recently failed in an audacious bid to tempt England rugby union international Henry Paul back into rugby league.

Now they are believed to have turned their attention to O'Neill, who was dropped for Warriors' defeat to London Broncos last week.

The loss of another big money earner would suit Wigan's bank balance and would lever a little breathing space under crippling salary cap restrictions which have already forced the club to release Gary Connolly, David Furner and Harvey Howard.

But Raper would not be drawn on the issue and insisted O'Neill was still in contention for the trip to the Kingston Communications Stadium.

"I never add to speculation. Julian is in contention for this week's game," he said.

But Wigan will be without the services of Mick Cassidy, who has suffered a recurrence of the calf injury he picked up at Castleford on the opening day of the season.

And skipper Andy Farrell has been rated 'extremely doubtful' for the following week's intriguing Challenge Cup semi-final clash with Bradford Bulls.

His knee injury, also picked up at The Jungle, had seemed to be clearing up but now Raper can not predict a date for his return.

"He's had a bit of a setback," said Raper.

"It's taking longer than we thought. He's been back to the specialist. He's very doubtful for the semi-final, if no chance at all.

"You are always going to miss your captain, but we can't use it as an excuse.

"Every week I've been very comfortable with the players I've selected. I've shown faith in them, and they've got to come up and do a job."