Leeds Rhinos suffer fresh injury blow; out-of-contract winger to miss Leigh Leopards clash
David Fusitu’a warms up for Leeds Rhinos. Photo by Steve Flynn/News Images.
Leeds Rhinos will be without winger David Fusitu’a for their home clash with Leigh Leopards next Sunday in Super League.
The 28-year-old has failed his head injury assessment against St Helens, confirmed by Sky Sports reporter Jenna Brooks, having been forced from the field inside the opening quarter at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
Fusitu’a suffered the blow trying to force his way over the try-line from acting dummy-half. He was named on the wing for the clash by head coach Rohan Smith, with Rhyse Martin as his centre.
The injury has forced Papua New Guinea international Nene Macdonald onto the wing, with back-rower James McDonnell shifted to centre.
Sam Walters was introduced from the bench.
Fusitu’a is without a contract at the end of the season, and has been limited to just 11 Super League appearances so far in 2023 due to injury.
He has scored five tries.
The former Tonga and New Zealand representative suffered an ankle injury against Hull KR earlier in March and was forced to undergo surgery.
He marked his return to action with two tries against Huddersfield Giants at Headingley Stadium after ten weeks out.
Leeds face Leigh next Sunday, August 6, at Headingley Stadium,
RUMOUR MILL: Leigh eye Samoa international; Aidan Sezer offered contract; Widnes linked with League 1 coach