Three key changes in Leeds Rhinos predicted starting 13 and bench v Warrington Wolves

By Peter Smith

Published 18th Aug 2023, 16:21 BST

Updated 18th Aug 2023, 16:59 BST

Leeds Rhinos can’t afford another defeat when they play host to Warrington Wolves on Sunday.

With Justin Sangare ruled out through injury, at least one amendment will be made to Rhinos’ matchday 17, but other positive changes are likely.

Leeds have David Fusitu’a, Harry Newman and Sam Walters in contention after injury and Derrell Olpherts and Leon Ruan are also vying for a recall.

Here’s how coach Rohan Smith’s side could line up.

Had a good game against Leigh two weeks ago, played well for Batley in the 1895 Cup final and, with Richie Myler injured, could have a sustained run in the team.

. Full-back: Luke Hooley

Had a good game against Leigh two weeks ago, played well for Batley in the 1895 Cup final and, with Richie Myler injured, could have a sustained run in the team. Photo: Bruce Rollinson

Missed the Leigh game through concussion, but likely to return on Sunday.

. Wing: David Fusitu'a

Missed the Leigh game through concussion, but likely to return on Sunday. Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com

Fusitu'a's return will probably mean a switch from wing to centre for Macdonald.

. Centre: Nene Macdonald

Fusitu'a's return will probably mean a switch from wing to centre for Macdonald. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Will probably remain at centre in the starting side for at least one more week.

. Centre: Rhyse Martin

Will probably remain at centre in the starting side for at least one more week. Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com

Has played other positions this year, but it'll be a surprise if he doesn't continue in his specialist role.

. Wing: Ash Handley

Has played other positions this year, but it'll be a surprise if he doesn't continue in his specialist role. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Rhinos don't have a specialist stand-off in their senior squad, but Johnson has done a solid job filling in.

. Stand-off: Corey Johnson

Rhinos don't have a specialist stand-off in their senior squad, but Johnson has done a solid job filling in. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com

Had a good game against Leigh two weeks ago, played well for Batley in the 1895 Cup final and, with Richie Myler injured, could have a sustained run in the team.

1. Full-back: Luke Hooley

Had a good game against Leigh two weeks ago, played well for Batley in the 1895 Cup final and, with Richie Myler injured, could have a sustained run in the team. Photo: Bruce Rollinson

Missed the Leigh game through concussion, but likely to return on Sunday.

2. Wing: David Fusitu'a

Missed the Leigh game through concussion, but likely to return on Sunday. Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com

Fusitu'a's return will probably mean a switch from wing to centre for Macdonald.

3. Centre: Nene Macdonald

Fusitu'a's return will probably mean a switch from wing to centre for Macdonald. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Will probably remain at centre in the starting side for at least one more week.

4. Centre: Rhyse Martin

Will probably remain at centre in the starting side for at least one more week. Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com

Has played other positions this year, but it'll be a surprise if he doesn't continue in his specialist role.

5. Wing: Ash Handley

Has played other positions this year, but it'll be a surprise if he doesn't continue in his specialist role. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Rhinos don't have a specialist stand-off in their senior squad, but Johnson has done a solid job filling in.

6. Stand-off: Corey Johnson

Rhinos don't have a specialist stand-off in their senior squad, but Johnson has done a solid job filling in. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com

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