Ward to play in Grand Final

Leeds Rhinos have received a massive boost ahead of the Betfred Super League Grand Final with the news that forward Stevie Ward has been cleared to play at Old Trafford.

Ward spent last Friday night in hospital after dislocating his shoulder in the semi-final win over Hull FC. He went into theatre on Saturday morning to have the shoulder relocated. He has seen specialists this week and has passed a fitness test at final training on Fridaymorning to be included in the team for the Betfred Super League decider.

Commenting on his selection, Ward said, “I am delighted to be involved tomorrow night. There was a dark few hours a week ago as I thought my season was over but I would like to say a massive thank you to the nurses, doctors and specialists who helped me. Our physio team at the Rhinos, Andy Barker and Ben Harper, have been brilliant with me this week to make sure that I am ready for a game as intense as a Grand Final. As a team, we are determined to make the most of the opportunity in front of us and produce our best performance of the season tomorrow night against a very good Castleford side.”

Head Coach Brian McDermott added, “We are all aware of the highs and lows Stevie has faced during his career and each has made him into the character he is today. He has remained positive since last week and, having seen specialists, he has been cleared to play. Stevie has had to pass every test we have put in front of him, which he has done, because he would not want to put the team at risk just so he could be at a Grand Final, he wants to play an integral part in the game for us.”