Buderus has penned a two-year deal with the Super League champions

Leeds Rhinos insist new signing Danny Buderus will be fit for the start of the 2009 Super League season.

There were fears the Newcastle Knights hooker would miss the first month after tearing a bicep playing in the NRL.

But Rhinos coach Brian McClennan told BBC Radio Leeds: "It's going to be around a four-month recovery rather than six months.

"The good news for Leeds fans is that they can expect to see him ready for game one next year for the Rhinos."

Australia international Buderus has signed a two-year contract with the Super League champions.