Sinfield back in business

Kevin Sinfield

KEVIN Sinfield admits being dropped by Leeds was “not pleasant” - but insists it comes with the job.

The Oldham-born veteran stand–off was relegated to the bench for the first time since 2003 for the Rhinos’ Super League match at St Helens last month.

Two games later he was dropped from the team altogether — the first time since being left out of Leeds’ Challenge Cup final team in 2000.

But after missing the Rhinos’ draw at Huddersfield and their surprise defeat at Widnes, Sinfield was recalled by coach Brian McDermott for the Challenge Cup tie against the Giants 11 days ago and kicked eight goals in a 48–16 win. He kept his place for last Friday’s league game against Hull KR, when he produced a 16–point haul in a man–of–the–match performance to help keep his side on top of the table.

Sinfield spoke of the bitter experience as he prepared for tomorrow’s big league match against Wigan, which will bring the curtain down on day one of the Magic Weekend in Newcastle.

“It’s not new,” he said. “It’s been a while but it’s not new. It’s something all sports people have to go through from time to time. It wasn’t great but thankfully I’m back in the team now and I’m really looking forward to contributing and getting the best out of the team and myself.”