Leeds Rhinos man on verge of comeback as he opens up on injury frustration

Second-rower Morgan Gannon didn’t play a competitive game in 2024, but is on course to feature in Rhinos’ Festive clash with Wakefield Trinity.

The now 21-year-old suffered concussion in successive warm up games and was subsequently stood down for the entire campaign.

He has been in full training since Rhinos’ pre-season began last month and confirmed: “I’m definitely hoping to play on Boxing Day. That is the target and I want to be playing in that.”

That is good news for Rhinos, who are a second-rower down following Papua New Guinea captain Rhyse Martin’s off-season move to Hull KR.

“I have been in full training from day one,” Gannon revealed. “These first few weeks it has been good to be like a normal player again and not have a white bib [signifying non-contact] on at training, or being told ‘you can’t do this, do something else’. It has been nice to be around it again.”

Gannon also suffered a head injury late in 2022 which kept him out of that year’s Grand Final, but has no concerns over his return.

“I’ve not even really thought about [the concussions],” he stated. “I am trying to not over-think it.

“If I start thinking about it I might be a bit more hesitant, so I have just got to back the rest I’ve had and trust that has done the job.”

The Halifax-born forward has gained around five kilos in weight since he last played and feels fitter and stronger.

He said: “Obviously last year I couldn’t have any contact so physically I had to improve my running and strength and everything like that. They are good foundations I have laid from last year.”

James Bentley and James McDonald are also pressing for a starting spot in Leeds Rhinos’ second row for their opening Super League fixture at home to Wakefield Trinity in February, but Gannon isn’t looking that far ahead.

“I haven’t really thought about round one,” he insisted.

“I haven’t played a game of rugby for a year so I don’t really know where I am at. That’s a good thing for me as I can take it as it comes.

“Nearer the time I’ll start thinking about it, but at the minute I am just trying to get myself right and in the best position possible. I know if I am in that position, it will take care of itself.”