When Kruise Leeming was helped off the field with a foot injury against St Helens convulsing it looked like his season could be in doubt.
However, Rohan Smith has confirmed that the hooker’s injury isn’t as bad as feared and that he has been training.
He said: “It’s not as bad as first thought, he has done some training but we felt it was best to give him a graduated return to training and not take any risks with only a week’s turnaround from that win.”
Last season, Leeming suffered a foot injury that put him out for months but Smith confirmed that this injury wasn’t connected:
“It’s not the same injury as last time but is similar but nowhere near as severe. It should settle down nicely.”
When asked how long until his return, Smith said: “It shouldn’t be too long.”
Smith has also given an important update on two of his star players ahead of the clash against Wakefield Trinity on Friday.
Smith confirmed that James Bentley will play against Wakefield as will star centre Harry Newman.
On Newman, Smith said: “Harry will feature on Friday. He is really excited. He will just be another of the 17, it is not about Harry but it is good to have him back.”
In terms of whether it was expected, he said: “Pretty much bang on. It was a bit difficult, his injury with the time frame means it can be a bit up and down.”
According to Smith, Newman is at present relaxed about his return: “He was very measured and calculated session, which is good to see. Maybe by game day we will have to calm him down, we’ll see.”
Meanwhile, Smith also praised Bentley’s approach to his return. He said: “He epitomises competitive spirit. He has done some good work in the last few weeks in terms of his rehab.
“We’re looking forward to him competing and chasing his position in the starting team back.”