Versatility key for JJB

Rhinos forward happy to play anywhere for Smith

Last updated: 22nd October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Versatility key for JJB

Jones-Buchanan: Could be a key figure

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Leeds second rower Jamie Jones-Buchanan believes he is the man Tony Smith is looking for to provide cover in the front row over the coming weeks.

With only four specialist props in the 24-man squad, coach Smith is likely to require support from elsewhere and Jones-Buchanan - having played at prop during Smith's tenure at Leeds - could be in the right place at the right time.

The 27-year-old played himself into the squad after a shoulder injury threatened to wreck his season, but a strong finish to the campaign and a good performance in the Grand Final sealed his spot.

"I'm not assuming anything but I'd be willing to play anywhere," said Jones-Buchanan. "If I got a shirt, that would be unbelievable.

"I've played prop a few times, particularly in 2005 for Tony Smith. The game is such these days that your centres and back rower are not that different physiologically to your front rowers.

"I'll do whatever job I'm given to the best of my ability, whether that's playing prop or carrying water for the lads."

The player added that support from both Smith and Rhinos chief Brian McClennan gave him the confidence to return to his best following the injury setback.

"Brian McClennan was really positive," he added. "He gave me a bit of a pat on the back and said good things happen to good people. I kept my head up and kept the rest of my body in good nick.

"I spoke to Tony a couple of times. He told me I wasn't going to be playing against France (during the summer) because I hadn't played much rugby, which was fair enough.

"It was real good that he spoke to me. Little things like that keep you in the loop and encourage you to keep going when you're down."