Holmes relishing his education at Leeds

A trip to Championship bottom club Ealing Trailfinders, where the West Yorkshire club play today, might not be as evocative as some of the former European champions’ imminent appointments.

However, for dashing winger Holmes, it is all part of an experience he is relishing.

The 21-year has been impressive at Headingley since joining at the start of the campaign.

He scored six tries in his first six games and, after a comparative dry spell, added his first in six fixtures with a brilliant 80m solo try in Sunday’s win over Bedford.

“I absolutely love it,” said Holmes, who has just five senior games with Wasps to his name so far.

“I’ve had no issues whatsoever up here. I’m just so pleased playing week-in, week-out and I’m really thankful to Jimmy (Lowes) for giving me the opportunity.

“I feel like I’m learning and developing each game. Obviously I’ve got a long way to go if I want to compete against the wingers at Wasps but I’m not really thinking about that. My focus is completely here with Leeds and hopefully keeping us going up the Championship table.”

Holmes has switched to full-back recently following an injury to Scotland’s Stevie McColl and – also being adept at scrum-half – has shown yet another dimension.

“Jimmy’s giving me a shot there and I have enjoyed it,” he added, with Leeds bidding to rise from third this afternoon.

“I’ve a lot to work on but I wouldn’t mind continuing to play there. I’ll play anywhere, though, and it’s just important we get another win at Ealing.”

Lowes has recalled Castleford Tigers winger Josh Griffin with Rob Vickerman moving back to the centre in place of Jon Clarke.

Fly-half Alex Lozowski comes in for Glyn Hughes while, in the pack, Lee Imiolek and Matt Smith start in place of Ben Harris and Harry Casson.

Blindside Mike Myerscough takes over from Richard Beck and David Sisi, signed on loan from Bath, is on the bench with returning French prop Damien Tussac.