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Leeds Rhinos Grapple with Mounting Injury Concerns
The Leeds Rhinos’ injury crisis shows no signs of abating, as Head Coach Rohan Smith delivered a concerning update on several long-term absentees. The struggling Rhinos have endured a season plagued by significant injuries to key players, with the latest blows coming in their defeat against Huddersfield, where Harry Newman and David Fusitu’a were forced off the field.
In a worrying development, Smith revealed that the Rhinos may be without more than half a dozen first-team regulars for their upcoming clash with Hull FC on Sunday. The under-pressure coach provided updates on three members of the Leeds squad, highlighting the growing depth of the club’s injury woes.
Indefinite Layoff for Holroyd and Bentley
Tom Holroyd and James Bentley have both missed recent games due to head injuries. Holroyd was withdrawn during the Warrington match after failing a Head Injury Assessment (HIA), exhibiting symptoms of concussion. Bentley, meanwhile, is working with a specialist following a head knock sustained in the victory over Castleford Tigers, the latest in a series of concerning concussions for the Rhinos second-rower.
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Smith acknowledged the ongoing challenges, stating that Holroyd is progressing through the HIA protocols but will be unavailable this weekend. Bentley’s return, however, remains uncertain. “He could be another couple of weeks, or he could be longer than that,” Smith said. “We’re trying not to reserve judgement until we know and until the consultant gives us the direction on that one.”
Starlet’s Continued Absence a Concern
Perhaps most worrying is the continued absence of promising youngster Morgan Gannon. The 20-year-old, who made a significant impact in Super League last season, has been sidelined due to a string of concussions and is seeking expert medical advice. Gannon failed an HIA during the off-season and was advised to take a three-month break to fully recover, a timeline Smith has reiterated the club is willing to respect.
“He’s returning no time soon. A decision on when that return is will come in the next little while,” the coach said. “We’re certainly not rushing that one. He’s been through a lot that kid so we’re playing the long game on that one.”
As the Rhinos continue to navigate this injury crisis, the club and its supporters will be eagerly awaiting the full recovery of Holroyd, Bentley, Gannon, and their other first-team absentees. Their return could prove pivotal in lifting the struggling side and steering them towards a more positive season.
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