Big injury problems for Leeds

Leeds Rhinos duo Rob Burrow and Brett Ferres are set for sustained spells on the sidelines, head coach Brian McDermott has confirmed.

Burrow has had an operation on his shoulder and will be out of action for six weeks, making him highly doubtful for next month’s Challenge Cup semi-final.

Second-rower Ferres is expected to miss four weeks as he prepares for a clear out on his knee next week.

Young full-back Ashton Golding will also miss Thursday’s clash with St Helens as he recovers from a hamstring problem.

The Rhinos will also be without captain Danny McGuire and veteran forward Jamie Jones-Buchanan for tomorrow’s clash (both suspended).

Jordan Lilley is expected to make a rare appearances in the team after spending most of the 2017 campaign on loan at Bradford.

Head coach Brian McDermott is hoping the young half can continue his development and praised the new Bulls coach for his recent progression.

“Geoff Toovey has been doing a great job with him at Bradford,” McDermott said at his weekly press conference.

“He’s spent a lot of time with Jordan and given him some almost individual coaching.

“Jordan’s game has developed while he’s been there and I’m looking forward to seeing him tomorrow night.”