Rohan Smith has revealed conversations regarding recruitment and retention at Leeds Rhinos will begin in the coming days. Smith arrived at Headingley on Tuesday for his first official day as head coach of the Rhinos, and will meet the full squad on Thursday for the first time.
However, the Australian admitted that discussions with players whose contracts expire at the end of the current season are high on his personal agenda. And while he will not be able to make any definitive decisions just yet, Smith said that he will endeavour to speak to players such as Rhyse Martin, whose contract runs out later this year, to determine a long-term plan for the make-up of his squad.
"Those conversions are something we're going to have in the next few days," he said. "To check in with the status of players that are looking to be re-signed or who we want to re-sign."
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Smith described the conversations as a 'priority', adding: "The players who need to have a conversation with me, I won't be able to have a definitive answer for them today."
"But I can have a conversation with them and see where they want to go with their careers. The ball can then start rolling when needed, but they're club decisions and we'll be having those conversions in the coming days and weeks."
Smith also hinted that he may even look at strengthening his squad further this season should the opportunity arise. Leeds have already signed Zak Hardaker on a deal to the end of the season, and Smith suggested there could be further scope to do business.
"Every club is always out for an opportunity to strengthen your roster, and you'll explore it with salary cap and with the needs of the group in mind," he said.
"But there's an understanding that there's a good bunch of young kids here and you don't want to have too many people in their way."
