Leeds Rhinos’ Harry Newman opens up on Rohan Smith’s exit and England future

He made his England debut last autumn, starting all three Tests as Shaun Wane’s men whitewashed Tonga. But Newman, 24, admitted: “I’ve been a bit up and down this year. A lot has happened around the club and we probably haven’t reached our peak as a team at Leeds so it can be difficult at times. It was an emotional time, losing Rob and everything that came with it.

“And then with the coach (Rohan Smith) leaving. I had a great relationship with Rohan and was disappointed by this. But coming here is a new, fresh start and an opportunity to start for the rest of the year.”

Leeds are still waiting to decide who will be their new manager after parting ways with Smith just over a week ago, with Salford’s Paul Rowley and former Parramatta boss Brad Arthur among the bookies’ favourites. Newman believes the Rhinos can still mount a play-off challenge. He said: “I’ve had a great relationship with Rohan, both on and off the pitch. I don’t have a bad word to say about him. I thought he was a great guy, a great coach and our performances and results s -they are done with Rohan losing his job.

“But you have to get over it quickly and focus on the next game. The boys did that very well last week. Credit to Chev (Walker) and Grixy for accepting this role. TThe boys had a major reason to play well but now they are finding their form. Me and Ash (Handley) missed last week but we’ll be back there (after England) and keep working hard. What’s done is done. We continue and push for the play-offs now.”