close
close

The Leeds Rhinos striker has been ruled out for the rest of the season

Leeds Rhinos

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 26/05/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 13 – Leeds Rhinos v St Helens – Headingley Stadium, Leeds, England – Leeds’ Morgan Gannon lies injured against St Helens.

Leeds Rhinos have suffered an injury-hit 2024 season, with a number of key players spending time on the sidelines. Now they have suffered another blow as a young star has been ruled out for the rest of the season.

The Rhinos are currently seventh in the Super League table and have endured a disastrous start to the season. After significant recruiting activity in the final season, the Rhinos were expected to be part of the league’s leading group.

However, a series of injuries to key players has contributed to a form of stuttering. Key players such as James Bentley and Tom Holroyd missed long spells with head injuries. Star Backs Ash Handley, Harry Newman and David Fusitu’a all suffered major injuries which sidelined them for long periods.

Now the Rhinos have confirmed that one of their highly-rated young talents will miss the rest of the 2024 season.

Leeds Rhinos confirm extended injury layoff

Leeds Rhinos

Credit: Imago Images

A club statement confirmed that young forward Morgan Gannon is facing an extended layoff due to the effects of a series of head injuries. Gannon, 20, first broke into the Rhinos team as a teenager in the 2021 season. He made 45 appearances for the Rhinos in Super League and was part of the squad that reached the 2022 Grand Final .

An official club statement confirmed Gannon’s absence to give his brain the opportunity to fully heal.

“After speaking with the concussion specialists, medical staff and coaching staff at Leeds, it has been decided that I will not take part in the 2024 season.

“I am in perfect health and suffer none of the side effects of concussion, it is simply a decision to give my brain time to heal, rest and recover from the concussions I have- I suffered in close succession. It was a decision made a few months ago and since then I’ve had time to process it and come to terms with it.

“Although it is very disappointing, I have no doubt that it is the best decision for my long-term future in the game and life beyond rugby. I can’t thank the club enough for looking after my physical and mental well-being during this process.

“This time on the sidelines will be used as a great opportunity for me to develop and improve to ensure I am in the best possible position when I return. Thank you for your support and I will be ready to go in 2025,” Gannon added.

Smith wants to make sure Gannon gets the best support

Leeds Rhinos

Credit: Imago Images

Speaking in the club’s statement, Rohan Smith confirmed that Gannon will remain in training with the Rhinos for the rest of the season, although he will not take part in contact sessions. Gannon is working toward a return in the 2025 season.

Leeds head coach Smith said: “We will ensure Morgan receives the best possible support as he looks to return to action next season. He’s still very much part of our team and training with the guys with all the non-contact stuff.

“There is a priority for this in other codes, and experts tell us that the one thing we do know is that time and rest are essential for brain recovery.”

Smith added: “As well as being around the group, Morgan is also using the time to develop personally as he gains qualifications and our strength and conditioning staff have developed a specific program that we believe will ensure that when Morgan is ready to go back. , he will be physically prepared for the demands of playing Super League.

“I’m sure Morgan has a long career ahead of him and I hope this short spell away from the field will allow him to fulfill his potential in the sport.”

Related Articles

Back to top button