Leeds Rhinos youngsters will get their chance says coach Richard Agar

Rhinos have a full overseas quota, following the addition of props Zane Tetevano and King Vuniyayawa, but Agar insisted homegrown players won’t find their pathway blocked.

“I have said all along, since I’ve been in the job, there is a focus on making sure these young blokes become top-line first graders,” Agar stressed.

“I am not deviating from that, I will make sure Mik Oledzki plays and Cameron Smith plays, it is Tom Holroyd’s turn, we gave Harry Newman his turn and he has repaid us.

“Alex Sutcliffe hasn’t done much wrong when he has played first grade, Sam Walters is going to get a chance and I will give Jarrod O’Connor and Jack Broadbent a chance when their time comes.

“That’s where we think Leeds have had all their strength before, promoting from within and getting some of those juniors into first grade.”

But Agar admitted it is also important to bring in the “right level” of players from overseas and he reckons Rhinos have that.

He added: “I certainly feel at the moment our overseas roster is strong and full of quality, but importantly for me they are influential blokes as well.

“They are good team men and guys who are prepared to spread their experience and influence within the squad.”

Support the YEP and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news and the latest on Leeds United, With a digital subscription, you see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.