Leeds Rhinos have been dealt a potential injury blow after new signing James McDonnell limped off during their pre-season clash with Bradford Bulls. The back-rower appeared to suffer a knee injury midway through the first half, resulting in his withdrawal from the field.
McDonnell, who has arrived from Wigan Warriors, is set to be in Rohan Smith's thoughts for the Super League opener with Warrington Wolves, competing for a spot in the side with the likes of Rhyse Martin and James Bentley. Bentley has yet to feature in the pre-season while fellow Morgan Gannon has been used in the halves throughout the trial matches.
McDonnell clutched his knee after a collision and following treatment, he was assisted across the field. However, in a potentially positive development, he was able to walk unassisted as he approached the touchline, though he was hobbling. He went straight down the tunnel but did return in his playing kit.
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Regardless, Smith will be asked about McDonnell's status post-match. The Rhinos already have a number of injury concerns including Harry Newman, Nene Macdonald and Mikolaj Oledzki. Derrell Olpherts was a late withdrawal from the game at Headingley while David Fusitu'a missed a third-straight game.
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