Exciting prospect Morgan Gannon commits his future to Leeds Rhinos Yorkshire News

The 18-year-old second row made his debut 11 months ago and is set to make his 18th appearance in tonight’s home game against Hull FC.

Gannon, the son of former Halifax and Huddersfield striker Jim Gannon, was called up to the England Knights squad at the end of last season and is regarded by Rhinos management as one of the brightest prospects in the European game.

Gannon, who is in his final year studying for ‘A’ Levels, said: “I am very pleased to have settled my contract and secured it so I can focus on my rugby.

“I am happy to have playing time, to have a lot of minutes under my belt and to learn every week. That’s all I can really ask for.”

Leeds manager Richard Agar described Gannon as “an outstanding young man and a real credit to his family”.

He said: “On top of that, he has tremendous talent, which he has shown over the last 18 months with the Rhinos. I am sure that he will continue to progress in the years to come.”

Leeds face another month without center Harry Newman, who suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury in victory over Wakefield Trinity a week ago. That was his first competitive game of 2022, after he initially got hurt in a preseason game on Jan. 30, but Agar insisted he wasn’t called up too soon.

“We couldn’t have been much more careful,” Agar said of the World Cup contender’s ill-fated return to England.

“We had him scanned, he healed completely and we kept him on longer to get a few more miles on his legs. It was going great until [the injury reoccurred]. He started running and brought a lot of energy and attacking drive to our team.”

Agar added: “It is a big disappointment for us. We’re looking at similar time frames as last time, but obviously [we will be] ultra-careful.”

Hooker Kruise Leeming and forward Cameron Smith, who will serve a one-game suspension tonight, but second row Alex Mellor is available after a concussion.