By Phil Harlow

McGuire scored a stunning 35 tries for the Rhinos in 2004

Leeds star Danny McGuire is hoping for a return to the superlative form that helped the Rhinos to the Super League title two years ago.

After making his Great Britain debut and setting Super League alight in 2004 with his remarkable try-scoring exploits, McGuire's 2005 was a stop-start affair because of injuries and he was eventually forced to sit out the Tri-Nations.

"This year I want to stay injury-free and get back to my form of a couple of years ago," the 23-year-old half-back told BBC Sport.

"I want to play consistently well week-in, week-out and get back to enjoying my rugby. Last year was so interrupted and it really did my head in.

"Watching this year's Tri-Nations on television was frustrating for me.

"I'd had a taste of it the year before. To be part of a Great Britain side is exciting and a great achievement but hopefully I can push on and do it again."

I've trained really hard and not left anything in the locker Danny McGuire

McGuire has certainly got off to a good start in his attempts to recapture his 2004 form, scoring tries in Leeds' opening two Super League games.

And while his game will always be judged with one eye on the try-scoring stats, his passing game looks to have developed and his tackling seems to be more solid.

"I feel very confident," said McGuire, who scored 35 tries in 2004, one less than Bradford winger Lesley Vainikolo.

"If you don't go in confident, you come unstuck. I've trained really hard and not left anything in the locker."

McGuire was also full of praise for the contribution made by Rhinos coach Tony Smith.

Coach Smith extends Rhinos stay

Smith, who guided Leeds to their first title in 32 years in 2004, signed a new contract at Headingley which will keep him at the club until 2007.

"It's great news for the club," said McGuire. "When he came here two years ago he took the club onto the next level.

"The personnel have always been there but we needed a good leader and he's come in and changed a few things and everyone got on board.

"We've achieved some good things and that will continue into the future now."