Rhinos will be without winger Alfie Edgell after he suffered a foot injury in the defeat at Wakefield Trinity two weeks ago. New signing Chris Hankinson is vying with Leeds’ top try scorer Riley Lumb to take over.
Second-row Morgan Gannon is back in the initial 21-man squad following five matches on the sidelines with ankle damage and his expected return will strengthen a pack still missing long-term casualties Mikolaj Oledzki and Tom Holroyd. Loose-forward Cameron Smith (back) and hooker Andy Ackers (illness) are also in contention after missing the derby against Trinity. Here’s how Rhinos could line up in a game they must win to retain hopes of a top-three finish in Betfred Super League.
13. Second-row: James McDonnell
Another ever-present, all 22 appearances being in the starting second-row. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
14. Loose-forward: Kallum Watkins
Will probably retain the role, even if Cameron Smith returns to the 17. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
15. Sub: Sam Lisone
Will be needed to make his usual big impact. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
16. Sub: Presley Cassell
Was excellent against Wakefield last time out in his second senior appearance and deserves to keep his place. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
17. Sub: Cameron Smith
Missed the previous game with a back problem; has probably played his best rugby off the bench this term. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
18. Sub: Morgan Gannon
Back in contention after missing five games with an ankle injury. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com