Time short at Leeds Rhinos but Toronto Wolfpack-bound Richie Myler can still make an impact

But Myler, now in the third and final year of his contact, stuck to his guns and was one of Leeds’ most impressive players in their opening five games of the campaign.

Rhinos return to Betfred Super League action on Sunday, August 2 and here we assess what Myler will bring to their squad over the next few months.

Attributes:

What has been most impressive about Myler in 2020 is his versatility.

He began the campaign as substitute hooker and was introduced at full-back – a position he had never played before – in the first half of the win over Warrington Wolves in February.

He was excellent that night and again when he started as the last line of defence in the following game against Toronto Wolfpack.

Myler’s attitude has been first class, he is a quality support player and also a solid defender.

Defining moment:

When Walker was injured against Warrington and Myler replaced him, the former Widnes, Salford, Warrington and Catalans player responded with a sparkling man-of-the-match performance, scoring one try and being involved in three others.

Best season:

Myler was Rhinos’ player of the year in 2017.

Club legends Rob Burrow and Danny McGuire were a hard act to follow and Myler was in a struggling team, but he made 31 appearances, more than anyone else and scored 10 tries, six goals and a one-pointer.

Concerns:

Now 30, Myler was a scapegoat in 2018 and the first half of last year, when Leeds were battling relegation.

Behind an often-beaten pack, he struggled to control games and the lack of a settled half-back partner left him carrying a heavy burden.

Value:

Myler is set to join Toronto Wolfpack next year, though the Canadian club’s recent problems could have a bearing on that. He is no longer a first-choice half-back, which is obviously what he wants, but remains an important member of Leeds’ 2020 squad.

A message from the Editor:

Leeds has a fantastic story to tell - and the Yorkshire Evening Post has been rooted firmly at the heart of telling the stories of our city since 1890. We believe in ourselves and hope you believe in us too. We need your support to help ensure we can continue to be at the heart of life in Leeds.

A letter from the editor

Subscribe to our website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click HERE to subscribe. For more details on our newspaper subscription offers click HEREThank you, Laura Collins