Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Rohan Smith Provides Injury Update on Key Players
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In the wake of Leeds Rhinos’ recent Super League defeats, head coach Rohan Smith has shared a critical injury update on some of the team’s key players. Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Smith addressed the concerning injuries that have plagued the Rhinos’ backline.
Influential winger Ash Handley sustained a rib injury during the team’s loss against Warrington and subsequently missed the defeat against Huddersfield. Further compounding Leeds’ injury woes, both Harry Newman and David Fusitu’a picked up injuries in the Huddersfield match.
Addressing Fusitu’a’s condition, Smith confirmed the player has suffered significant damage to his medial knee ligament, which will sideline him for an estimated 8-10 weeks. “He’s worked so hard through the other knee injury and was in really good shape. I think that even that first part of the game last week showed what he can do,” Smith said, expressing his disappointment over the setback.
“We’ll help him through this part, and he’ll be back to finish the season at the back end of the year,” the coach pledged.
Fusitu’a’s contract expires at the end of the 2024 season, leaving his future at Leeds uncertain. However, Smith remains optimistic about the winger’s ability to contribute before the year is out.
While Fusitu’a and Newman are set to miss this weekend’s match against Hull, there is a glimmer of hope for Handley’s potential return. Smith revealed that the winger has been steadily increasing his on-field activity and could even be named in the 21-man squad, though the coaching staff will monitor his progress closely before making a final decision.
As Leeds Rhinos navigate through this challenging injury crisis, Smith’s updates provide both cause for concern and cautious optimism for the team’s supporters. The Rhinos will be eager to field their full-strength backline once again as they strive to turn their season around.
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