Shaun Wane has given an update on the Leeds Rhinos trio who have missed out on a call up to the England squad. Mikolaj Oledzki is the only Rhinos player who has been selected to play for England in this Saturday's clash with the Combined Nations All Stars. Wane is known to be a big fan of the 23-year-old prop.
However, Kruise Leeming, Zak Hardaker and Harry Newman have all missed out on a place in the side, despite all being involved in camps since Wane took the job.
Leeming has captained the Rhinos this year, and during a tough season has been one of the better players in the blue and amber shirt. He also played for the Combined Nations All Stars last time out when they were 26-24 winners over England. Wane admitted that he is still an admirer of Leeming, however he still needs to improve if he wants to represent England at the World Cup.
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Wane said: “I had a long chat with him this morning, there are one or two things in his game that I spoke to Rich Agar about when he was Leeds coach. He knows that if he’s doing the things that I need him to do towards the end of the year then he’s got a good shot at playing in the World Cup."
Many Rhinos fans seem to be shocked with the decision to leave Leeming out of the side given his form this season, however it may be a sign of the standards which Wane expects from his players.
Another player who has also let his form dip is Zak Hardaker, who now seems to be at the beginning of an upwards curve since joining Leeds. Again, Wane has said that the door is not closed for Hardaker, should he impress towards the back end of the year.
“He’s doing okay with Leeds but there’s certain things I want from my fullback and centre. He’s just joined Leeds and just started playing again, he’s had his demons, so I just want him to relax, sit back and enjoy being at Leeds. If his form is outstanding towards the end of the year then I’ll bring him back into the squad."
Harry Newman has had his troubles with injuries once again this season, but Wane admitted he rates him a lot. Wane admitted that he can see Newman play for England in the autumn.
He said: “I’ve had a long chat with Harry, he’s got lots of time and I rate him very highly.
“I can see him playing for me in the world cup, I genuinely believe that, so he has got every chance. What we’re going to need in the world cup is strong ball carriers, and there’s nobody better than Harry, he’s got a great chance."
