Problems mount for champions as Watkins ruled out

LEEDS RHINOS coach Brian McClennan is mulling over "all options" after talented three-quarter Kallum Watkins became the champions' fourth long-term injury victim.

The 18-year-old was yesterday ruled out for six months after scans showed he requires a knee reconstruction operation.

Watkins has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and joins Scott Donald (shoulder), Carl Ablett (ankle) and Greg Eastwood (wrist) on the sidelines.

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Struggling Leeds have real issues in the wing position where Watkins, who had shown his versatility by playing full-back and centre due to their injury problems, had been deputising for Donald, who is missing until at least early May.

They have just England's Ryan Hall as a recognised wideman, meaning McClennan may have to recall in-form Ben Jones Bishop, the 21-year-old who has impressed for Harlequins where he is on a season-long loan.

"The injury toll is building but we'll weather the storm and there's a range of options with what we can do. We'll consider all of them," said McClennan, who could also dip into the transfer market if needed.

Apprentice plumber Ian Bush, 20, who made a try-scoring debut against Harlequins earlier this month after being drafted in from the Rhinos' reserve grade, has also been in the 19-man squad since and could be elevated to a more prominent role.

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Watkins suffered his injury in the first half of Sunday's 26-20 defeat at Huddersfield, a reverse that leaves the Rhinos seventh in Super League, having lost half of their six fixtures.

"It is extremely disappointing news for Kallum," said McClennan, who could be bolstered by the return of captain Kevin Sinfield for Friday's visit of Hull KR after he missed the last two games with a dead leg.

"Having spoken to Kallum, he is prepared to use this as a challenge to overcome to help him become a better player; I think that speaks volumes for the type of young man he is."

Huddersfield received better news on two fronts. Centre Michael Lawrence – Watkins's former England Academy team-mate – could return inside four weeks after it emerged he only badly sprained his ankle and did not suffer a break during the game. And team-mate Andy Raleigh escaped suspension but was fined 300 at last night's disciplinary hearing for punching Leeds' Ali Lauititi.

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Salford scrum-half Jeremy Smith was suspended for two games and fined 300 after pleading guilty to striking Harlequins player Danny Orr.

BATLEY BULLDOGS are without Jonny Simpson (ankle) and Josh Griffin (shoulder) for tonight's Northern Rail Cup tie at Gateshead while Paul Handforth (calf) faces a late fitness test.

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