James Bentley is suspended, Luis Roberts, who was also among the substitutes for last week’s defeat at Castleford Tigers, has been omitted from Rhinos’ initial squad and Kruise Leeming drops out of the 21 ahead of his impending move to Gold Coast Titans
Coach Rohan Smith revealed there has been some illness in the camp this week and several “bumps and bruises” from the derby setback, while Wakefield Trinity’s request to take full-back Luke Hooley on a short-term loan was turned down.
Hooley, winger Liam Tindall and stand-off/scrum-half Jack Sinfield have been drafted into the provisional squad, which hints at possible changes in the outside-backs or pivots.
Corey Johnson, 18th man at the Jungle, could cover at hooker and Sam Walters and James Donaldson – who were unused reserves last week – remain in contention to bolster the middle-unit. Here’s how Rhinos might line up.
. Full-back: Richie Myler
Luke Hooley is now available, but if he's fit - and not needed to play elsewhere - Myler remains first-choice full-back. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
. Wing: Derrell Olpherts
The former Castleford man had a tough time last week and his place might be under threat, but he is a metre-maker which is something Rhinos need with Ash Handley still sidelined. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
. Centre: Harry Newman
Two games into his comeback, it might be time for him to play the full 80. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
. Wing: David Fusitu'a
There are options for change in the outside-backs, but Fusitu'a will probably contuinue in his regular slot. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
. Stand-off: Blake Austin
Only likely to miss out if injured or ill. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
13. Loose-forward: Cameron Smith
A change here would be a surprise. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
14. Sub: Sam Lisone
Catalans have a big pack and Rhinos will probably need Lisone among their replacements to counter that. Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Sub: Sam Walters
Was unfortunate to be left out last week - and missed - but will surely be recalled to the 17. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
17. Sub: Corey Johnson.
O'Connor can play 80 minutes, which would allow for another middle (James Donaldson) or outside-back to cover for Newman (Liam Tindall) on the bench, but Johnson deserves a chance as back-up hooker. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com