Super League Preview – Leeds v Wigan
Leeds’ flagging season has been showing signs of improvement over the past couple of weeks, and they have been given another boost ahead of the clash with the league leaders as influential scrum-half Rob Burrows has returned from long-term injury.
Burrows, who has been absent with knee problems, replaces Ian Kirke in the squad, who is ruled out by a groin problem, while experienced duo Jamie Peacock and Keith Senior are also back after being rested for the 31-22 win over Salford.
Coach Brian McClennan is delighted in welcoming back Burrow for the all-important clash.
“We are pleased to welcome back Rob Burrow this week,” Brian McClennan told the club’s official website.
“He brings another dimension to our team. He is very quick and adds a threat to our attack and he will help our squad ignite. We are beginning to get players back now from injury and that bodes well for the big games that we have coming up.”
Wigan go into the match still without head coach Michael Maguire, who has had to stay in Australia for a second week due to family reasons. Assistant coach Shaun Wane takes charge once again and is looking to continue his hundred percent record following his side’s 46-0 win against Hull last weekend.
Wane, who actually made over 60 appearances for Leeds after signing for £60,000 from Wigan in September 1991, has been forced to make one change to the squad - with Paul Prescott ruled out with a slight facial injury, young prop Ben Davies has been brought in. The Warriors are still missing Michael McIlorum, Amos Roberts, Phil Bailey and Eamon O'Carroll through injury, but all should be returning within the next couple of weeks.
Wane told the club’s official website: "It is extremely sad the circumstances in which I have taken over and we all wish Michael and his family well at this time. He was able to watch the game last week from home and was in contact straight after the game and I expect the same this week."
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