“Is this a joke?” – Leeds fans left stunned as impressive forward set to play for reserves

Leeds Rhinos academy coach Tony Smith has named his squad for the Reserves clash with Hull FC at Headingley.

Smith is able to name seven first team contracted players in his side for the clash against Michael Shenton’s FC side. Morgan Gannon continues his recovery from a concussion, after head coach Rohan Smith announced that the youngster would get minutes in the Reserves clash. Luis Roberts and Sam Walters were part of Bradford’s winning side against Halifax earlier in the week and are eligible for today’s game, as well as Jack Sinfield and Leon Ruan.

Ben Hursey-Hord has served his suspension and is back for the Rhinos, while Smith also gives Keenan Dyer-Dixon and Iwan Orr their first chance to play in Rhinos colours this year. Dyer-Dixon came through the Rhinos Academy in 2021 and is currently part of Keighley Cougars’ squad, while Orr, son of former Castleford player Danny, has impressed while with Leeds Beckett University’s Rugby League’s programme.

Many Leeds fans though have been left stunned by the inclusion of Sam Walters in this squad.

The young forward has impressed when he has played in 2023 including a superb assist against St Helens.

He is also in the last year of his contract and many fans believe he should be playing more to convince him to stay at Headingley.

Two fans took to the comments to describe the decision as “a joke.”

https://twitter.com/Woodyy1679/status/1646862251981144065?s=20

Walters not playing first team is a joke!

— Rhinos Talk (@RhinosTalk) April 14, 2023

Whilst it is clear some fans are beginning to get worried:

What’s going on with Walters??? Why on earth is he in the reserves.

— Benjamin (@BenDoug72322847) April 14, 2023

Meanwhile one fan believes something is up whilst another fan said “he’s all but gone.”

Walters in reserve game, he’s all but gone

— Ed Croft (@EdCroft95) April 14, 2023