Harry Newman 'faster and more powerful' as he nears Leeds Rhinos return says coach Richard Agar - England star targets visit of St Helens for comeback match

A faster, more powerful Harry Newman is on course to make his Leeds Rhinos comeback when St Helens visit Emerald Headingley on Friday, June 11.
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The England squad member has not played since breaking two bones in a leg during Rhinos’ Betfred Super League win over Hull KR last September.

Coach Richard Agar confirmed the centre is “getting closer and closer” and has looked “really good” in training sessions with the team this week.

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Agar said: “The speed he is running at is higher than it has ever been so he has got more powerful while he has been off.

Rhinos' Harry Newman, who could be back in action next month. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.Rhinos' Harry Newman, who could be back in action next month. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.
Rhinos' Harry Newman, who could be back in action next month. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.

“Even though there are times when you’d look at him and think he is still carrying it a fraction, actually his movement and his speed are in front of where they were when he got injured.

“That is really positive for us and he is earmarking the St Helens game as a possible comeback game, though he has still got a couple of clearances on that.”

Agar revealed Newman has taken on his own personal performance coach and said the way he has handled his recovery and rehab’ - and the advances made while on the injury list - has been “a real testament to him”.

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He said: “He is an elite, high-performing player and - injuries permitting - is going to be for a long time.

“He is a very driven human being, as a young kid that has not always manifested itself the right way.

“A younger Harry would probably be more reactionary and impetuous in certain situations, but as he has grown up and evolved and become a bit more comfortable with what’s required of him - and gained more understanding of playing in a team sport - he has made real strides personally and professionally."

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