Rugby League: Leigh Leopards Boosted by Dan Norman’s Return for Huddersfield Giants Clash
Leigh Leopards coach Adrian Lam has confirmed that prop Dan Norman will make his comeback in Friday’s road match against Huddersfield Giants. The Ireland international has successfully completed the return-to-play concussion protocol, bolstering the Leopards’ forward pack options for their Round 12 encounter with Huddersfield, who they lost to 16-8 in the opening round.
“There’s only Dan Norman at the moment who is coming back from a failed HIA and the return to play protocols, so he’ll be in consideration to play,” Lam stated during his weekly press conference.
The Leopards boss also provided a comprehensive injury update on the rest of his sidelined players. Gareth O’Brien (calf) and Ben Nakubuwai (soft tissue) are likely to return in a week or two, while John Asiata (hamstring) is expected back in three to four weeks. Nathan Wilde (collarbone) is approximately a week away, and Keanan Brand (knee) is still two to three weeks from rejoining the team.
“All of those players are back on field running now and it’s just a matter of getting that load up to make sure they’ve got enough in their legs. We’re pushing them really hard and pushing everyone to make sure they’re ready to go as quickly as possible,” Lam explained.
Despite the injury woes, the Leopards have remained unbeaten in their last three matches, including a draw with Castleford. Lam is pleased with the experience gained by players like Owen Trout and Ben McNamara, who have stepped up in the absence of the injured stars. The coach is also excited to welcome back Dan Norman this week, believing the prop’s return will provide a timely boost to his team’s forward pack.
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