Leeds well prepared - Rawlinson

Rawlinson made his Leeds debut against Orrell in 1999

Leeds Carnegie's Rob Rawlinson believes his side have their fittest and strongest squad ever ahead of the new Premiership season.

The 35-year-old hooker has been at the club for 10 years, experiencing each of Leeds' six top-flight campaigns.

"I think this year above others we are much better prepared," Rawlinson told BBC Radio Leeds.

"We are certainly much, much fitter and the strength in depth is much better, so hopefully we can stay up."

Rawlinson's joined Leeds in 1999, lifting the Powergen Cup in 2005 and suffering relegation in 2006, but the player is confident his side have the ability to stay up this season.

"With the odd exception, this squad of players have played together for two season on the bounce now, so that togetherness and bonding will serve us well.

"With the additions of some good players we are now stronger, and we all know each other well.

"So when things get tough, and we don't doubt they will at points, hopefully we'll be able to ride it out together, so that's a good thing.