Hooker returns to Leeds Rhinos and will play against St Helens

Luis Roberts was a regular in the Leeds starting line-up thanks to serious injuries to David Fusitu’a, Harry Newman and Paul Momirovski.

Now Leeds’ injury crisis looks set to provide an opportunity for another of Rohan Smith’s thinking starters.

Leeds Rhinos Hooker hopes for first team stakes

Credit: Imago Images

Corey Johnson was once considered the next hot prospect from Leeds’ legendary youth academy. He made his debut against Warrington Wolves in 2019 before taking a break from the game. After a spell in amateur rugby, he rejoined the Rhinos in 2021, immediately joining York City Knights on loan. He became a key part of the Rhinos team in 2023, playing 18 games in a difficult season.

Johnson has spent most of this season on loan. His contract is due to expire at the end of the season and Johnson looked set to leave the club. However, he was unexpectedly recalled to the first team squad for the game against Catalans Dragons.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Johnson confirmed that he intends to try and claim a place in the Rhinos side.

“I’ll try to push for a place in the team here,” Johnson said

“I haven’t thought about next year yet. I just want to straighten up, straighten my leg and take it from there.”

Johnson in line to face St Helens

Credit: Imago Images

In a remarkable rise in fortunes, Johnson is now in line to face St Helens on Friday night after being named in Leeds’ 21-man squad. Brodie Croft also returns to the squad, which may limit Johnson’s chances of making the matchday squad.

However, Johnson is determined to make the most of this opportunity. Commenting on what has been a difficult 2024 so far, Johnson believes he now has the chance to prove himself in the Leeds hierarchy.

“It was a bit of a bummer, not the start of the year I wanted, especially coming into the last year of my contract. You want to prove yourself and get playing time, but it is what it is. I just have to play the cards I’ve been dealt and do the best I can.”

With Leeds struggling for a stable squad this season, this may be Johnson’s best chance of earning himself a new contract until 2025.