DARYL Clark has been ruled out of contention for Warrington Wolves’ clash with Castleford Tigers on Thursday.

Shortly after returning to the field for his second stint in today’s opening-day win at Leeds Rhinos, the hooker was forced off after taking a knock to the head.

Clark failed his in-game head injury assessment and under concussion protocols – extended this year from seven days to 11 for this year – he will miss the game against his former club at The Halliwell Jones Stadium.

However, head coach Daryl Powell said the England international was “okay” despite not being able to return to the field.

“He won’t be available for Thursday. It’s a short turnaround so even on last year’s protocols, he wouldn’t have made it,” he said.

“He failed his head test but he’s okay.”

No injuries were picked up during The Wire’s 22-20 win at Headingley but Powell left open the possibility of centre Toby King returning to contention to face the Tigers.

He missed today’s game with a knee injury and in his place, Connor Wrench started and scored his side’s winning try.

When asked if he expected to have any players back for Thursday, Powell said: “I’m not 100 per cent.

“Toby King will be there or thereabouts but we’ll get a check over the early part of the week to see where we’re at.”