Leeds Rhinos: Jamie Jones-Buchanan provides update on Zak Hardaker

Leeds Rhinos interim coach Jamie Jones-Buchanan says new signing Zak Hardaker feels fine after suffering a suspected seizure earlier this week.

Hardaker, 30, returned to the Rhinos on Tuesday following his release from Wigan.

Unfortunately, Hardaker was stood down for medical reasons. He suffered a suspected seizure whilst on a walk with his young son after his first session with the Rhinos on Tuesday.

The England World Cup hopeful was rushed to hospital where he had a number of tests before safely being discharged home.

Hardaker was initially named in the Leeds squad to face Hull KR but was stood down following his suspected seizure.

Jones-Buchanan says he has spoken to Hardaker, who he played alongside for the Rhinos between 2011-17.

Speaking after Leeds’ 12-0 win over Hull KR on Friday, Jones-Buchanan said: “He (Hardaker) had a test in Manchester yesterday and I spoke to him. He’s fine and he just needs looking after.

“He’s never been shy of talking about some of his challenges but there’s triggers with him.

“When he’s happy he’s fine and he’s got too many mates here so he’ll be happy.”

More on Zak Hardaker

Leeds rallying around Zak Hardaker, says Jamie Jones-Buchanan

Hardaker stood down by Leeds Rhinos after suspected seizure

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Jamie Jones-Buchanan proud of Leeds win over Hull KR

Jones-Buchanan took his last man in charge as interim coach on Friday as the Rhinos edged past Hull KR, who play Huddersfield in the Challenge Cup semi-finals next weekend.

New head coach Rohan Smith is due to arrive early next week, where Jones-Buchanan will become assistant again.

On the win over Hull KR, Jones-Buchanan said: “I’m over the moon. We’ve been talking a lot about pride and they’ve got there through hard work and sheer effort.

“It’s been showing its head for a number of weeks but they obviously believed. When Rohan gets in he’ll pick it up and kick it on and these boys can go as far as they want – there is no ceiling.”

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