MAC’S SET FOR FLAK
BRIAN McDERMOTT is half expecting the Leeds fans to turn on him at some point this year.
He led the Rhinos to Super League glory last year for the fourth time in seven years.
McDermott is also the most successful and longest-serving coach in the club’s history.
But he insists none of that will stop the fans giving him flak if the champions lose a few games.
He said: “I have got a lot of experience and what that has taught me is that it’s going to be as tough as anything.
“It was tough last year and the year before and I do not think I have ever had an easy year here. Every year people call for (chief executive) Gary Hetherington to resign, for us to get rid of certain players and they call for me to be sacked.
“What’s gone before is something to be proud of maybe when I’m old and greyer.
“It doesn’t mean we are 10 yards in front of anyone. But I am confident that we are ready.”
Gruelling
Leeds need to hit the ground running, with two tough Super League games before they fly to Australia for the World Club Challenge on February 16.
The Rhinos have just five days in Melbourne before they take on NRL kings Melbourne Storm, then fly back for another league game days later in a gruelling schedule.
McDermott added: “We have a chance of coming back as world champions.
“It has not been done in Australia since Wigan beat Brisbane. If we win it will surpass that.”
McDermott has named his strongest possible squad for Sunday’s friendly at Grand Final opponents Castleford, with new signings Richie Myler, Nathaniel Peteru and Brad Dwyer all set to play, while Brett Ferres (knee) and Stevie Ward (shoulder) miss out.