Manu Samoa’s preparations for their tour of the Northern Hemisphere has been hamstrung by a raft of injuries which has forced Coach Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua to make some changes.

Two half backs have been hit at the same time.

The most noticeable change comes at halfback where veteran player, Kahn Fotuali’i has had to pull out due to an injury.

This was confirmed by the Samoa Rugby Union. A statement did not say what the injury was but Fotuali’i has been replaced by Pele Cowley from Waikato, New Zealand.

The second of Samoa’s halfbacks, Auvasa Falealii has also been injured, replaced by Dwayne Polataivao.

Another big loss is prop Logovi’i Mulipola who has been replaced by newcomer Joe Sililoto of Northland, New Zealand.

The Manu Samoa has assembled in the UK to prepare for their three match tour of the Northern Hemisphere.