York Knights seal loan deal for Leeds Rhinos forward

Super League newcomers York Knights have boosted their squad ahead of Friday’s clash with Leigh Leopards after sealing a deal for Leeds Rhinos forward Ben Littlewood.

Littlewood will become the second Leeds player to leave the club on loan this week, after England centre Harry Newman joined Hull FC on a surprise loan deal.

The young forward has struggled for game-time at AMT Headingley, and spent last weekend out on loan at Championship side Hunslet.

But Littlewood will now head to North Yorkshire to feature for Mark Applegarth’s Knights this weekend, securing a major recruitment bonus for them ahead of the showdown with the struggling Leopards.

Littlewood featured from the bench in two of Leeds’ first three Super League games this season, but he has not appeared since as the Rhinos’ injury problems ease.

However, he will now get an opportunity to show his potential in Super League when he plays for York this weekend – with the prospect of a longer deal also not ruled out.

Littlewood is a highly-rated prospect at the Rhinos ever since making his debut in 2024. He has had loan spells with the likes of Halifax Panthers and Salford, before playing for Leeds’ partner club, Hunslet, on two occasions this year.

As for York, they have been looking for fresh blood to bolster their ranks after a horrendous start to the season when it comes to injuries. They were down to their last fit 17 players last weekend when they took on Hull KR, but were unable to secure loan additions due to clubs being unwilling to cup tie their players.

But with that issue now off the table, there is likely to be more movement, with York set to strengthen their ranks. They will also welcome back David Nofoaluma and Will Roberts, both of whom were cup tied last weekend, when they take on Leigh.

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