Leeds Rhinos have crucially lost Mikolaj Oledzki to injury ahead of Round Two of the Betfred Super League as the club face a difficult clash against Hull KR.
Speaking to the press, Head Coach Rohan Smith provided an update on Oledzki confirming that he faces a scan in the injured shoulder:
“He’s got a bit of a bang on the shoulder, and short turnaround rounds, so he just won’t be quite ready in time. It’s nothing to worry about at this point. We’re having a scan later on today.”
He also confirmed that it’s the same shoulder he has had issues with in the past: “Yeah, it’s the same shoulder. That’s why we’re just getting it double checked. But at the moment, it’s just not going to settle in time.
“It’s the nature of the sport we play. Other guys have played well last week and got some work under their belt and it may give an opportunity for some young players to get going on the back of a positive pre-season too. We always see opportunity in every situation so it’s not ideal but that’s the way it rolls and we’ll be doing our best anyway.”
Leeds Rhinos star set for return
Rhyse Martin is set for a return to his second-row position for Leeds Rhinos this season. – Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
James McDonnell returned to the squad this week from injury and Smith provided an update on him as well:
“Yeah, James has trained fully today. He’s in good shape and we’ll just see how he pulls up tomorrow after today’s session. He’s had a big hit out, but he’s done a terrific rehab and we’ve done a good job. Our medical team have got him back maybe a bit ahead of schedule.”
McDonnell could make a move into the backrow which would allow Mickael Goudemand to move into the front row alongside James Donaldson replacing the injured Oledzki.
Teammate Morgan Gannon is out for three months however due to continuing head injuries in recent times sadly. The club have said they are set to support the young man.
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