James Bentley has once again been left out of Leeds Rhinos' squad for a fourth consecutive game. The Ireland international has not featured during the pre-season and will once again not feature against Hull KR.
Coach Rohan Smith confirmed earlier this month that Bentley did have an injury but the Rhinos have kept the exact issue under wraps. However, with the 25-year-old still absent, there are concerns as to his condition ahead of the new campaign. Bentley missed the Boxing Day game due to his involvement in the World Cup but was expected to feature in some capacity in recent weeks.
Speaking after the game with Leigh Leopards, Smith declined to reveal the nature of the injury but said: “He has had a minor knock and he won’t play next week either. It’s nothing major.”
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Leeds will run with as full-strength a squad as injuries allow in the contest this Sunday, with the only senior players missing the game being those who are still rehabbing. That means Harry Newman, Nene Macdonald, David Fusitu'a, James Bentley and Luke Hooley all miss out.
The squad does feature Leon Ruan, the young back-rower who has made a big impression during the pre-season games following his move from League 1 Doncaster. Winger David Fusitu’a has been named for the first time after recent speculation linking him with a move from Headingley.
Leeds Rhinos squad to face Hull KR: Myler, Fusitu'a, Handley, Austin, Sezer, Leeming, Tetevano, Martin, Smith, O'Connor, Lisone, Sangare, Holroyd, McDonnell, Gannon, Walters, Tindall, Roberts, Donaldson, Sinfield, Ruan, Edgell.
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