Leeds Rhinos full-back Lachie Miller has highlighted what the club ‘lacked’ in 2024 whilst lauding praise on signing Jake Connor.
Despite the Rhinos’ improved performances following the appointment of Brad Arthur, results did not improve enough in order for Leeds to make the play-offs which marked a clear failure in their season objectives.
The club held lofty ambitions after signing a whole new spine, whilst their 2025 recruits have added strike on the wings and size in the pack – as well as Jake Connor.
Handed the number 18 shirt, there are questions over where Connor will play in 2025 but he’s certain to add a lot to the Rhinos – something that full-back Lachie Miller has argued when speaking with BBC Radio Leeds.
The Australian suffered an injury during the off-season but has confirmed that he will be fit for Round One, although he’s conceded that he’ll have a fight for the starting spot given the depth at the position.
He explained: “I’ll definitely be in contention but team-wise we’ve got a fair bit of competition there with Jake (Connor) and young Alfie (Edgell) as well but I’m in contention.”
Leeds Rhinos ‘lacked competition’ in 2024 as full-back lauds Jake Connor
Credit: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
With both Miller and Edgell injured for the Boxing Day clash against Wakefield Trinity, Brad Arthur turned to his versatile new signing and that saw Connor put in a brilliant debut performance where he scored two tries.
Miller has now lauded the praise on his counterpart and is seemingly very happy that he will not have to play against him as well.
“Very,” Miller responded when asked how impressed he had been with the former Huddersfield Giants man, adding: “I’ve only played against him and you get the same sort of message from everyone when you play against him, that he’s good at getting under your skin but since he has come here, he has been really good.
“I’ve said it before, i think he’s got some of the best hands that I’ve ever seen or played with. He’s an impressive player and is very smart so he’s a really good player to have.”
Miller even referenced Connor’s Boxing Day exploits, alluding to the fact that it could be difficult to regain the starting spot.
He said: “Obviously, in that game against Wakefield, he dominated so I’ve got a bit of a task to get that position back but I’m looking forward to it.”
That competition for places is something that the Australian has claimed Leeds lacked in 2024 and in turn contributed to the Rhinos’ lack of success.
“The competition is good,” Miller stated.
“That’s what we lacked last year. We didn’t have competition in a lot of positions and maybe we tended to get a bit complacent.
“I think this year is a lot different, there’s a lot more competition and a much better attitude.”
