Preview: Leigh v Sheffield

Centurions trio Martin Ridyard, Nicky Stanton and John Duffy are all doubtful for Sunday’s Co-operative Championship showdown with Sheffield.

Leigh coach Ian Milward expects Stanton to still make Sunday’s squad but is less hopeful on the fitness of Duffy and Ridyard.

Millward said: “Sheffield put on a terrific performance themselves last Saturday when scoring more points against a strong Wigan side than any other team this season, and that shows just how stiff a test we are facing.”

Aaron Groom is nearing a return for the Eagles, although Sunday’s trip to Leigh is likely to come too soon for the former Canterbury half back.

Eagles trio Mitch Stringer (ankle), Alex Rowe (ankle) and Jack Howieson (knee) will all be monitored by coach Mark Aston before any final decision is made on their involvement.

Aston believes that their performance against Wigan Warriors in the Carnegie Challenge Cup will give his side the belief they need.

Aston said: “The lads were up against the best in Super League but they never gave up and finished strong – scoring tries.

“We’ve got a few bangs and bumps but we’re ready for Leigh. It’s going to be a tough one but we just have to believe in our ability.”