Rugby League Rhinos Bolster Squad with Short-Term Loan

Leeds Rhinos have announced the signing of Wigan Warriors forward Sam Eseh on a brief loan deal, as the club stands down four more players due to concussion concerns.

The Rhinos will be without Harry Newman, Ash Handley, Tom Holroyd, and Sam Lisone for Friday’s matchup against the Leigh Leopards. The quartet have been placed under concussion protocol after the team reviewed footage from their recent defeat against Hull FC.

Leeds has reiterated its commitment to player safety, stating that they are “adopting the correct protocol” in standing down these individuals. With Andy Ackers, James Bentley, and Morgan Gannon also sidelined due to concussion symptoms – including Gannon, who will miss the remainder of the year – the Rhinos now have seven first-team players unavailable due to head injuries.

“We are adopting the correct protocol in standing down these individuals.”

In response to the growing injury list, the Rhinos have turned to the transfer market, securing Eseh on an initial short-term loan. The Wigan forward, who has spent time on loan at Castleford Tigers this season, will almost certainly feature for Leeds in Friday’s crucial match against the Leopards as the team fights to maintain their play-off hopes.

The news comes as the rugby league community continues to grapple with the challenges of player welfare, particularly around concussion management. Leeds’ commitment to following the appropriate protocols in this instance reflects the sport’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the long-term health of its athletes.

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