James Bentley is suspended, Luis Roberts, who was also among the substitutes for last week’s defeat at Castleford Tigers, has been omitted from Rhinos’ initial squad and Kruise Leeming drops out of the 21 ahead of his impending move to Gold Coast Titans
Coach Rohan Smith revealed there has been some illness in the camp this week and several “bumps and bruises” from the derby setback, while Wakefield Trinity’s request to take full-back Luke Hooley on a short-term loan was turned down.
Hooley, winger Liam Tindall and stand-off/scrum-half Jack Sinfield have been drafted into the provisional squad, which hints at possible changes in the outside-backs or pivots.
Corey Johnson, 18th man at the Jungle, could cover at hooker and Sam Walters and James Donaldson – who were unused reserves last week – remain in contention to bolster the middle-unit. Here’s how Rhinos might line up.
13. Loose-forward: Cameron Smith
A change here would be a surprise. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
14. Sub: Sam Lisone
Catalans have a big pack and Rhinos will probably need Lisone among their replacements to counter that. Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Sub: Sam Walters
Was unfortunate to be left out last week - and missed - but will surely be recalled to the 17. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
17. Sub: Corey Johnson.
O'Connor can play 80 minutes, which would allow for another middle (James Donaldson) or outside-back to cover for Newman (Liam Tindall) on the bench, but Johnson deserves a chance as back-up hooker. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com