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Leeds Rhinos man lifts lid on Brad Arthur conversations and the responsibility he’s keen to take on

Leeds Rhinos

New Leeds Rhinos signing Jake Connor has outlined why he’s ready to thrive in Headingley’s “unbelievable” atmosphere.

The former Hull FC, Huddersfield Giants and England back will make his second appearance for Rhinos in Sunday’s Ash Handley testimonial game at home to Wigan Warriors.

Connor scored two tries in a man of the match performance when Leeds began their pre-season campaign with a win over Wakefield Trinity a month ago.

He had a fractious relationship with fans in Headingley’s South Stand over his time with Giants and Hull FC, but revealed it has always been one of his favourite places to play.

Some jeers were aimed at him during the Boxing Day clash, but Connor pledged that is “not going to affect how I want to play” – and insisted he is relishing running out at Headingley with the majority of the crowd on his side.

“I am not going to play perfect every time, but I don’t think a few boos are going to put me off my game,” he vowed.

“Every time I’ve played [at Headingley] since I was 18 years old, the atmosphere has been unbelievable.

“The famous ‘Leeds Rhinos’ chant, I am looking forward to hearing that. It’s always good to play in front of a big crowd and I’d like to think I thrive in front of big crowds as well.”

Connor will wear number 18 this year, but Sunday’s game is another chance for him to show coach Brad Arthur he is worth a place in the starting side.

With Lachie Miller and Alfie Edgell both injured, Connor is likely to be at full-back when Rhinos face Wakefield in Betfred Super League round one in three weeks’ time.

“I do like full-back, it probably is my preferred position,” Connor admitted. But he stressed: “Coming here, I know I am not the number one full-back.

“I’ve spoken to Brad and I’ll probably play here, there and everywhere, which is fine. We have had that conversation.

“Obviously Lachie and Alfie are out and that position’s free, but I am going to give it my all wherever I play.”

Full-back gives Connor ample opportunity to get his hands on the ball, as he showed at Christmas.

“I think in that first half I had more touches than I would have in a game last year, so that is pleasing for me,” he reflected. “The more I touch the ball, the more I can make things happen.”

Miller’s absence could also mean Connor begins the year as Rhinos’ first-up goal kicker. Leeds have yet to decide their regular marksman following Rhyse Martin’s move to Hull KR and Connor confirmed: “I have always goal kicked through my career – I’ve never been the number one kicker, but I can do it.

“Being behind Sneydy [Marc Sneyd], I was never going to get the opportunity at Hull, but I did a lot of goal kicking at Huddersfield. I don’t mind it and I’ll put my hand up for it.”

And reflecting on the start of his Leeds Rhinos career, Connor added: “I am loving life here. It has been great since I walked in the door and I am enjoying my time so far.

“The boys have made me feel welcome; fair play to them, they have helped me settle in and it has been a good transition.

“Pre-season has been good, enjoyable. It has been hard, there’s been some tough, grinding days, but everyone has dug in and done what we’ve needed to do. It has been a successful pre-season, I think.”

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