Leeds Rhinos coach Brad Arthur provides positive Jake Connor update as he prepares to welcome back experienced duo

The reigning Man of Steel was forced off with muscle complaints in the closing stages of the emphatic win against York Knights, raising concern at the start of a crucial period.

But Rhinos boss Brad Arthur expects Connor to be available for the important trip to Saints.

"He's good," said Arthur during Wednesday's press conference.

"We've got a shorter turnaround this week of five days so we did a light walk-through yesterday and he's fine. He'll train today and is on track to play this week.

"We had a bit of concern after the game because we didn't know. He got a whack to a shin which bled and it moved around into his calf. It tightened up and that's what scared him so we wanted to get him off straight away."

Leeds are set to be boosted by the return of hooker Danny Levi and centre Jack Bird at the BrewDog Stadium.

Levi has not featured since suffering a neck injury in last month's game against Castleford Tigers, while Bird sustained a concussion during the recent defeat to Leigh Leopards.

"As long as he gets through the final session today, Danny will come back in," added Arthur. "We'll look to ease him in during the second half.

"He's keen to get back in and has done all the right things and ticked all the right boxes.

"He's comfortable to get back out on the field so we're really happy for him. It goes without saying what he'll bring to the team – his energy is a real lift."

Arthur remains confident that Keenan Palasia will be fit for next week's crunch clash with Wigan Warriors but rated James McDonnell and Maika Sivo as "50/50".

"Keenan ripped in today," said Arthur. "He's a really, really good chance for next week.

"Fingers crossed if we can get through this week and keep everyone healthy, we've got guys coming back at the right time of the year. They'll be fresh and should bring an injection of energy.

"We've seen Keenan's energy in the contact room today. He lifted the intensity. You could tell he was the fresh one on the scene."

Leeds moved back to the top on points difference courtesy of their 66-16 victory at York but are likely to start the game against Saints in second place after Hull KR opted to send an understrength team to Wigan.

Arthur, however, sees no reason for the Rhinos to look beyond themselves, with their League Leaders' Shield fate still firmly in their own hands.

"I'm just deep in thought about what we need to do," he said. "We're in control of what we get out of this season.

"As soon as we start to worry or drift, it takes the focus off what really matters – and that's us."