Leeds Rhinos Remain in Playoff Contention Amid Injury Woes
Despite an up-and-down season, the Leeds Rhinos remain in the hunt for a playoff berth in the Super League. A string of key player injuries has hampered the Rhinos’ progress this campaign, prompting them to sign Matty Russell on loan from Warrington Wolves.
Ahead of a crucial clash against league leaders St Helens this Friday, Leeds head coach Rohan Smith provided an update on the contract status of one of the Rhinos’ first-team regulars, Luis Roberts. The young utility back has been a regular fixture in Leeds’ backline this season, making 11 appearances and scoring three tries.
“Not very often are they super-straightforward anymore, there’s always complications or options or whatnot. We have had chats with Luis and they are ongoing as we’ve had with some other players,” said Smith.
The Leeds boss went on to praise Roberts’ impact this year, describing him as a positive influence on the squad.
“He is one of those guys players like playing with because he fits in, does his job with no fuss and is a good teammate. He helps others with his chat and his general footy awareness. He is a guy who, as a young kid, you’d say has had a good season for where he is at in his development.”
While Roberts has primarily featured on the wing this season due to injuries, Smith indicated he sees the versatile back as a better fit in the centres.
“Luis practised mostly as a centre through our pre-season. Given the circumstances of our roster, an opportunity came on the wing. He is a good footy player, he has got good awareness for the game and has learned to play wing at a decent level, but he is a better centre at this point in time and that’s something we’d like to explore more, particularly as players are more available on the wing.”
With the return of Harry Newman and the arrival of Matty Russell, the Leeds backline is nearly back to full strength as they prepare for a must-win clash against St Helens this Friday, in their quest to remain within touching distance of the Super League’s top six.
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