Leeds seek boost from McGuire absence

Leeds hope the absence of Danny McGuire will provide added motivation when they face Warrington in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley in a fortnight.

The 29-year-old playmaker was told on Tuesday he would be out for up to eight weeks with a knee injury suffered in Friday's win over Widnes.

Leeds may have won five Super League titles but are now seeking their first win in six Challenge Cup final appearances since defeating London in 1999.

And, according to Leeds coach Brian McDermott, being without McGuire could inspire his side.

"There's that angle to take. While it won't be in their minds all the time, there'll be nothing better than handing him a medal at the end of it and taking photos with his brace on and the trophy," he said.

"That's what you think about if you get the job done. They got on really well the players, they're a good and tight group and they will all have him as a form of motivation."

McGuire, who is Super League's joint-top all-time tryscorer, has scored 20 tries in 23 appearances this season and McDermott added: "It's big, he was going to have a good go.

He was in the right frame of mind. We've been through a process and he was a part of that. It's tragic. I bet he's feeling wretched. I can't tell you how he's feeling, but I can imagine.

"It's a big thing for him, it's been bad news. I can only imagine what it's like to have a Challenge Cup final appearance snatched from him.

"Everyone has rallied around him and spoken to him, but he's a professional, he's got it covered and he knows how to deal with it. He'll deal with it in the right way, but it sure as hell hurts."

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/leeds-seek-boost-mcguire-absence-180325043.html

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