Jamie Jones-Buchanan has conceded that losing Harry Newman for 12 months is a mammoth blow for Leeds Rhinos. The centre, who the interim Rhinos boss described as 'world class' is set for almost three months on the sidelines with a fresh hamstring issue.
Newman did the injury in the win over Wakefield Trinity, his first appearance since returning from another hamstring injury that saw him miss the opening three games of the season. Leeds haven't won a game without him.
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Discussing the injury, Jones Buchanan said: "It's a massive blow because Harry is the type of player you want to build a club like Leeds Rhinos on. When you're building cultures, Harry is the type of foundational character and player you want. He's world class, come through the system and it's really disappointing.
"I think actually it's a factor of his own physical success, his fast twitch fibres are so strong it's pulled itself apart. The way I try help him is telling him the process will help him become a more rounded and refined player. Look, a massive blow, I wish he was in the side, but not just because he's world class but because of what he brings culturally and spiritually."
Jones-Buchanan also revealed that David Fusitu'a has been concerned with a knee problem throughout his time at the club, which has prompted him to go under the knife to get an issue fixed.
"He's had a bad knee and that's brought about a bit of confidence with him. He wants to play fit and he's had some niggles and not been at his best, the medical team had a look at that and he's had a bit of a lateral meniscus tear.
"They've been in and cleaned it up. That's behind him now and it means when he does come back, which shouldn't be too long, they're usually about a month give or take, he'll be fit, healthy and can focus on his game rather than injuries."
In better news, Richie Myler and Tom Holroyd are getting closer to fitness have started doing light training, news that has pleased Jones-Buchanan as he looks to build some cohesion within his squad.
"They're contributing, they've been moving around. Neither are ready to play yet but one of the things I've been trying to do, regardless of whether you're injured or not, whether you're a young boy or old boy, I want everyone together.
"I think I spoke about a collective IQ and collective consciousness, well Richie Myler has got a massive wealth of information on not just our team but the opposition as well. They've got some valuable information, boys like Tommy Holroyd, a big, young strapping lad, he can rev up some of our forwards."
