Brian McDermott plays down return to Headingley

Drew Darbyshire

Former Leeds coach Brian McDermott returns to Headingley on Thursday night when his Toronto side take on the Rhinos.

The 49-year-old, who won four Super League titles with the Rhinos, will face his old club for the first time since his sacking in July 2018 but he is playing down the significance of his return.

He said: “I have been back there a couple of times. I think my presence will be irrelevant.

“Leeds have got their own story going on now. They had a really good win last week.”

McDermott was back at Leeds for the Super League season launch and the Wolfpack’s opening game, which was played at Headingley as part of a double-header and ended in defeat by Castleford.

Australian prop Darcy Lussick could make his Super League debut after recovering from a hernia operation but centre Chase Stanley is not yet ready to make his first appearance of the year after only arriving in the country at the weekend following via issues.

Meanwhile, Leeds are without full-back Jack Walker, who suffered a foot injury in their 36-0 win over Warrington lat week.

Rhinos boss Richard Agar could turn to utility Liam Sutcliffe or stick with Richie Myler, who produced a man of the match performance last Friday.

Joe Greenwood is set to make his Leeds debut after joining on loan from Wigan.

Watch our Last Tackle podcast, featuring a guest, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on YouTube.

Listen to The Final Hooter podcast, featuring exclusive interviews, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on Apple Podcasts.

More on site

York double-header moved to different venue

Expansionist Blog: An insight to rugby league in North America

Konrad Hurrell eager to make most of feel good factor at Leeds

Rugby League Today: Wane on heritage players, England’s new assistant & Gene returns to Hull KR

Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #200