Leeds Rhinos boss makes Jake Connor argument and explains two absentees

Man of Steel leader Jake Connor deserves to be in the England half-back conversation ahead of this year’s Ashes series, his Leeds Rhinos coach Brad Arthur says.

England boss Shaun Wane is set to name a performance squad on Monday and speculation at AMT Headingley last night, where Rhinos beat Leigh Leopards 48-30, was Connor will not be included.

The former Hull FC pivot last played for England seven years ago, but has been in sensational form this year, since joining Rhinos from Huddersfield Giants in pre-season.

He set up three of Leeds’ tries against Leigh and converted all eight in another dominant performance.

And, asked in his post-match press conference if it would be harsh to leave Connor out of the performance squad, Arthur insisted: “I think he has probably done enough to get a mention.”

Arthur said: “We’ve got quite a good representation in there and if the boys keep playing well, that only enhances Jake’s opportunities

“Individual rewards or accolades that players get can only happen if there’s a team-based focus and mentality. If the team continues to play well for each other, more guys might get added to that squad.”

Connor’s temperament has been questioned in the past, but Arthur stressed: “I am pretty happy with Jake’s behaviour on the field.

“He is doing a good job, isn’t he? He is being very discreet, when he’s having a little niggle I think he is doing a good job of hiding it.”

Connor’s goal kicking helped Rhinos keep Leigh at arm’s length. In contrast, Gareth O’Brien landed only three conversions, from six attempts, for the visitors.

“He kicked well,” Arthur added. “That helped. If you can go up in sixes, that certainly makes a difference.”

Leeds Rhinos boss explains James Bentley and Riley Lumb absence

Arthur also explained why Rhinos were without winger Riley Lumb – who had played every minute of every Leeds game this year before Friday – and second-rower James Bentley.

Arthur said: “Bentos is a bit crook and we’ve got the luxury that we’ve got good depth in our squad.

“We are reasonably healthy so we’ve got the luxury of not pushing blokes when we don’t have to.

“Riley has played 15 games straight, which is way more than we thought he would this year, because of the injury to Maika [Sivo].

“It was a chance to give him a week off and give Alfie [Edgell] an opportunity. He hasn’t had a lot of opportunity and I thought he did a really good job.”