None of Rhinos first-choice players is injured, but winger Riley Lumb and prop Tom Nicholson-Watton - who were both in last week’s initial squad - have gone out on loan to Hunslet RLFC and Castleford Tigers respectively. Young backs Fergus McCormack and Harley Thomas have been drafted into the 21 for Friday’s visit of Wakefield Trinity.
Though coach Brad Arthur has decided against resting players during the current injury-free run, he has been “sharing the workload” among his pack, with several forwards switching between starting team and bench. Here’s how Leeds’ team could look in the big Headingley derby.
13. Second-row: James McDonnell
One of the team's largely unsung heroes. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
14. Loose-forward: Kallum Watkins
Has played a variety of roles recently, but was at 13 last week. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
15. Sub: Mikolaj Oledzki
Started last week so could be on the bench as part of the 'sharing workload' policy. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
16. Sub: Keenan Palasia
Started at prop and loose-forward recently, but another who could move to the bench if workload is being shared. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
17. Sub: Cameron Smith
Would no doubt like to be in the 13, but is making an impact as a replacement. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
18. Sub: Jarrod O'Connor
Rhinos have two good, if different, hookers and either could start. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com