Cuthbertson and Galloway given starting jerseys for 2016

Correspondent

Brian McDermott has handed Adam Cuthbertson and new signing Keith Galloway the leading front-row squad numbers for 2016.

Treble winners Leeds will be starting a new season without the iconic figures of Jamie Peacock or Kylie Leuluai in their squad for the first time since 2006. 

Therefore, coach Brian McDermott has handed the opportunity to Cuthbertson and Galloway to stamp their own mark on the shirts in the hope the Rhinos can continue their success of last season into 2016.

Australian Galloway will wear the number eight shirt, and arrives at Headingley on a three year deal from West Tigers, having made over 200 appearances in the NRL for both the Tigers and Cronulla Sharks.

Man of Steel nominee Adam Cuthbertson will become only the fourth player to wear the number ten shirt for the Yorkshire club, following in the footsteps of legends such as Mike Forshaw, Barrie McDermott and Jamie Peacock

“It is a huge honour and privilege to be awarded the ten shirt after the legend that is Jamie Peacock,” Cuthbertson said.

“Last season was incredible for me in my first year at the club, and I am so excited about the potential for this group of players next season.

And Cuthbertson believe that the Rhinos, despite the off-season departures, can challenge once more in 2016.

“We have recruited well with Anthony Mullally, Jordan Baldwinson and Keith Galloway all coming in to strengthen our pack and Beau Falloon arriving from the Gold Coast. On top of that we have got some great youngsters who will help drive us on. 

“There is a huge appetite within the squad to build on last season and I am very much looking forward to being part of that,” he added.