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Matthew Shaw

Leeds Rhinos powerhouse linked with NRL return after unhappy Super League stint

David Fusitu'a is being linked with a shock exit from Leeds Rhinos. Reports in Australia claim the winger is unhappy in the UK and is keen to have another crack at the NRL.

According to Wide World Of Sports, Fustiu'a was given an extended Christmas break to return to New Zealand after a difficult first season at Headingley. Injuries meant he played just 14 times for the Rhinos during his first season, scoring five tries. He has yet to play in the pre-season after withdrawing late from the club's trial game against Leigh Leopards at the weekend.

Once the NRL's top try-scorer, his career has stalled through injury and those issues have continued to persist during his first 12 months in Super League. Nevertheless, reports claim that he wants a return to the NRL though it's unclear whether there would be any interest in his services at this point.

Read more: Leeds Rhinos' Gary Hetherington throws support behind Nigel Wood's Bradford Bulls management

Leeds' stance on the reports is unclear though it appears highly unlikely that they would want Fusitu'a to leave at present, with both Nene Macdonald and Harry Newman currently recovering from injuries. His departure in the short term would leave them light in the backs for the opening rounds.

It would open up a quota spot, which would give coach Rohan Smith some opportunities to recruit, though Leeds would be entering the market at a time when very few players are available. Fusitu'a is off-contract at the end of the season.

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