Rohan Smith addresses the future of Nene MacDonald

Leeds Rhinos are preparing for a huge game with Wigan Warriors as they battle with Warrington Wolves, Hull KR and Salford Red Devils for a play off spot.

When these two meet, it is always a huge fixture and even more so this week with Wigan Warriors sitting top of the league at the moment.

But part of the build up has hung around centre Nene MacDonald after he remained in Australia despite the fact he was set to return in time for the game.

Rohan Smith was naturally asked about MacDonald’s future at the club today in his press conference ahead of the game against Wigan Warriors.

Smith simply said it was in the hands of Gary Hetherington and refused to fuel speculation around his future as he focuses on the here and now.

As he does that, the team news is now in for their game against Wigan.

Rohan Smith has made just one change to the 21 man squad that won at Hull FC last week with youngster Riley Lumb called up in the 21 man squad for the first time. Lumb, 18, joined the Rhinos from Castleford Lock Lane and joined the first team squad this season.

The Rhinos are still without Aidan Sezer and James Bentley as they follow the return to play protocols following concussion. Ash Handley, who missed last Saturday’s game with a foot injury, is included as he continues to receive treatment.

There is still no update on the future of MacDonald who is the man who drops out of the 21 last week.

He was named and expected to be back from Australia to feature against the Black and Whites but didn’t return.

This even raised questions about whether or not he would remain at Leeds since then there has been talk around Leeds pursuing Brenko Lee, a former Wigan target no less.

Matt Peet has made one change to his 21-man squad for Saturday, as Tyler Dupree is back available following a failed HIA and replaces Harvey Makin.

The game kicks off at 14:45 at Headingley on Saturday. It is live on Sky Sports and forms the second leg of a brilliant weekend of TV action after St Helens vs Leigh Leopards and prior to Warrington Wolves and Salford Red Devils on Channel 4 on Sunday.