BRAD ARTHUR admits he “couldn’t imagine” having Danny Levi available again this season, but expects to have a trio back in contention for next week’s clash with Hull FC.
The hooker came off the bench to make his long-awaited return in the win over St Helens on Friday night, having been stretchered from the field with a neck injury against Castleford Tigers in July.
But his return didn’t last long, as he was withdrawn just minutes later after suffering issues relating to his injury.
“We’re waiting for him to see the specialist,” Arthur explained of the 30-year-old forward, who has featured 22 times for the Rhinos this season.
“He’s still got a little bit of nerve sensation, a tingling feeling in his left arm.
“That was obviously the issue originally. We need to go back and get the advice.
“I would say that it’s pretty much done for the season. We’re not ruling him out completely, but I couldn’t imagine him playing again this year.
“It’s not worth (the risk). I don’t want to make that decision, it’s Danny’s decision, but the best-case scenario is he gets healthy again, and we worry about it next year.”
Levi, who joined Leeds from Canberra Raiders ahead of the season, remains in good spirits despite the injury setback.
“He’s still training and was on the bike today, flogging himself,” the head coach continued.
“He’s still upbeat, but you can see he’s disappointed.
“He’ll be really good, he’ll bounce back and he’ll be excited for the opportunity for the rest of the squad.
“He’ll still be full of energy.”
Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash against Wigan Warriors may come too soon for Maika Sivo (arm), James McDonnell (pectoral) and Keenan Palasia (foot), but Arthur is hopeful to have the trio back at his disposal for their final regular season match against Hull.
“Maika has been training and going well. He’s declared himself available, so I’m not sure which way I’ll go and whether he’s quite ready.
“I’ll name him in the 21, but I think there’s a fair chance he’ll play next week against Hull FC.
“James McDonnell is the same. He’s keen to get out there this week and will be in the 21. I’ll have to make that final decision on Thursday in regards to him, but he’ll definitely be available for Round 27.
“Keenan (Palasia) is back against Hull FC. I think Keenan was more hopeful of (returning) this week, but the risk is too high for one week.
“I was just hopeful they’d all get back before the end of the year to get a hit-out before we go into the finals (play-offs).”