The next Leeds Rhinos manager cannot fix the fundamental flaw that is preventing a return to power

The goal for Leeds Rhinos’ next head coach is a simple one, but finding a solution will be more complex than it seems.

The current Rhinos squad is under performing. Ultimately, this is why Rohan Smith is no longer in his job. And you’d suspect that whoever fills the next Headingley position will be able to implement a few quick fixes that will help boost performances and results.

However, while Leeds do not lack talent, they do lack some of the minerals and characteristics needed to be a top team, and those are requirements that no amount of tactical and technical tweaks will solve.

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The Rhinos playgroup generally lacks enough characters with leadership qualities and has for some time. There is a lack of players capable of taking the team by the scruff of the neck and pulling them out of a dark hole when the going gets tough. There aren’t enough players who are comfortable engaging in cheating and making sure their team comes out on top.

Jon Wilkin rather brutally labeled the Leeds pack as soft after their defeat by Hull FC. He went a step further, suggesting he would “try to take on” Leeds prop Mikolaj Oledzki as he would not fear retaliation.

Oledzki’s highlight was harsh, but his point was valid. Leeds are sorely lacking an enforcer or an alpha. They don’t have that profile picture of opponents or an awkward player to run because they possess the dark arts of the game. They don’t intimidate anyone.

It was noticeable during last weekend’s loss that whenever a player made a mistake, a number of players would be on hand to offer reassuring words and an arm around the shoulder. But sometimes it takes a player willing to call out falling standards, to hold players accountable. That doesn’t seem to be there in the 80 minutes. In many ways, they are too nice.

To be clear, this is not a criticism of the captain, Cameron Smith, nor is it a dig at any of the individuals in the group. But collectively, the group lacks the full range of characters needed in a successful team.

She explains the signing of Ryan Hall, someone who has a presence, commands respect and will set and uphold standards. But Leeds need more than that. Until that is resolved, Leeds will not be candidates.