WOLVES boss Tony Smith is calling on his side to be physical as they face off against Catalans Dragons tomorrow, Friday.

Laurent Frayssinous’ side arrive at The Halliwell Jones Stadium knowing a win could take them to the top of Super League, with rivals Hull FC not playing until Sunday.

However, Smith’s men can overtake the Perpignan side with a victory and they look set to face a depleted Catalans side.

Willie Mason, Dave Taylor, Paul Aiton and ex-Wire man Richie Myler form a small part of a lengthy injury list, but Smith still thinks the French side pose a big threat.

He also says their increased amount of time on the training field will serve them well on Friday night.

“Catalans are a good team and they’re working pretty hard for one another,” he said.

“They are a big strong team with some big human beings, we need to be on our game right across the board.

“I think most teams have a pretty good knowledge of each other most of the time but its one thing knowing about it and another thing to handle it.

“They have a big pack and we need to match their physicality up front but they also have some outstanding outside backs and cunning half-backs so we’re going to be wary of them.

“Practice has been a big part of it, you don’t get better by just talking about it or hoping it happens.

“We’ve gone out there and practised pretty well and that certainly helps but it all comes down to game day and putting those good practices into play.”

While Myler and fellow Warrington old boy Louis Anderson may be missing, there is still a Wolves connection on the Dragons’ backroom staff.

Ex-Wolves half-back Michael Monaghan is currently the assistant coach at the Stade Gilbert Brutus, a role he took up after leaving The Halliwell Jones Stadium in 2014.

The Australian made 157 appearances for The Wire and Smith is looking forward to welcoming him back.

“It will be good to see him and I’m certainly looking forward to catching up after the game,” he said.

“All those friendships get put aside during the match but it’s always nice to welcome back former players and people who have been involved in building our club.”