Jamie Jones-Buchanan is relishing the prospect of rehabilitation after sustaining a potentially season-ending injury in Leeds’ Challenge Cup semi-final victory over St Helens.
The back-rower dislocated his knee after a collision with Travis Burns, which resulted in the tendons around his patella snapping. He is set to undergo surgery on Wednesday and is likely to spend a significant spell on the sidelines.
It is the latest in a series of unfortunate injuries for one of Leeds’ most recognisable stars, who has suffered knee and bicep injuries in the last two years. His latest setback almost certainly rules him out of the upcoming Challenge Cup Final against Hull Kingston Rovers at Wembley and potentially the rest of the season.
However, the 34-year-old revealed he is upbeat about his road to recovery.
“I’ve always said that it isn’t about Jamie Jones-Buchanan,” he said.
“It’s about the Leeds Rhinos. First and foremost I’m a player but I’m also a supporter as well, so I’m over the moon for the lads.
“Travis caught me with a sweet one and it knocked me over, but as I’ve fallen it’s pulled my quad from my kneecap. I knew straight away I’d done something bad, but I’ve no qualms or animosity because that’s just Rugby League for you.
“Getting an injury in a big game like that is disappointing, but that’s sport for you. I’ve had about 150 texts of support from people I played with 10 years ago to people like Sean Long who was on the opposing side of the game. It’s unbelievable and really gratifying.”
Amazingly, the England international only went to hospital on Monday as MRI services are unavailable at weekends, leaving Jones-Buchanan on his back for the duration of the weekend, which included his birthday.
“Getting an x-ray is no good, and the MRI units are shut at a weekend so I had to wait until Monday,” he said.
“I’m so grateful to the people at Leeds. They’ve been massively supportive of me over the last 18 months. I’ve had a string of unusual injuries, and I know people are saying I’m getting old at 34, but they’re all impact injuries, so if it was me or a 22-year-old the chances are the same thing would happen.
“I’m a persistent person and the club has always supported me. Brian McDermott has put no pressure on me and helped me get back fit and to the best that I can be.”
For full reaction to Leeds’ Challenge Cup victory over St Helens, buy League Express, in stores now.
