Rohan Smith reveals how long Leeds Rhinos star could be out for

Rohan Smith has given an update on injured star Ash Handley.

The Leeds Rhinos boss revealed he faces four-six weeks out as he spoke to the press today:

“Ash is a lateral ankle ligament which is not great, but it could be worse. Looking like a four to six week injury.

“He has been playing well and is a real quality leader and someone who points to how we want to play footy.

“He is a key part of our team.”

In terms of replacing Handley, Smith isn’t too worried with Harry Newman ready to go:

“Newman is there and ready to go. He will play a bigger role this week.”

He also gave an encouraging update on Newman’s return after he played 25 minutes last week:

“Harry has pulled up fine as he should after 25 minutes. It is just a case of following the principles of progressive overload.

“There is nothing quite the same as game day exertion so building that up, he is a unique character and athlete and building that up is the next little bit.”

Leeds have Derrell Olpherts and David Fusitu’a to start on the wings as they have every game this season though Fusitu’a was officially named at centre in Round One against Warrington Wolves.

In Round Three the two swapped edged with Olpherts joining Nene MacDonald on the right and Fusitu’a on the left.