Leeds Rhinos assistant coach Chev Walker has praised youngster Tom Nicholson-Watton after his impressive performances in the pre-season. The young prop has caught the eye in outings against Wakefield Trinity and Bradford Bulls in what is the latest development in a career that has already had ups and downs.
An England Youth representative, the 20-year-old has come through the ranks at Headingley, captaining the Under 16s before emerging in the club's reserve grade last year. His journey has been far from straightforward. He has already undergone shoulder reconstruction after several dislocations, a process that saw him miss almost a year of action.
But he has overcome those setbacks and is now on a reserve team contract, pushing hard to get his break. His energetic displays haven't gone unnoticed in his recent outings, with Walker, who has overseen his development from the start of his time at Headingley, leading the praise.
