Watkins has scored one try in five games this season

Champions Leeds have suffered another big injury blow following the loss of young back Kallum Watkins for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Scans reveal that Watkins, 18, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in Sunday's 26-20 defeat at Huddersfield.

And he now faces six months out after undergoing reconstructive surgery.

Leeds have already lost Carl Ablett (ankle), Scott Donald (shoulder) and Greg Eastwood (wrist) this season to long-term injuries.

And skipper Kevin Sinfield has missed the last two matches with the thigh injury that he suffered in the World Club Challenge defeat by Melbourne Storm, one of four defeats the reigning Super League kings have suffered in seven matches this season.

"This is extremely disappointing news for Kallum," said Leeds coach Brian McClennan. "Our medical team will ensure that he receives the best possible care.

"And I am confident he will come back from this setback so early in his career.

"Having spoken to Kallum he is prepared to use this as a challenge to overcome to help him become a better player and I think that speaks volumes for the type of young man he is."

Meanwhile, young forward Jay Pitts is one of four players cautioned at this week's RFL disciplinary hearing.

Pitts was summoned for 'placing undue pressure on the shoulder joint of a player' in Sunday's defeat at the Galpharm Stadium.

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