Pala'amo is a Samoan international

Leeds Carnegie hope to have their three stranded players back in the country within the next 10 days.

Mike MacDonald, Fosi Pala'amo and Henry Fa'afili have yet to have their visa applications processed and will miss Sunday's opener against Newcastle.

"We know that everything in regards to their applications are spot on," director of rugby Andy Key told BBC Radio Leeds.

"So we are hoping they will be with us within the next five to 10 days."

Prop Juan Gomez has just returned to Headingley after finally having his visa granted by the UK Border Agency, but he is likely to miss the opening two matches in order to build up his fitness.

We are happy where we are, we are confident and we are looking forward to this week's game Andy Key

"Juan has come back in very good condition and credit to him for that," added Key.

"He will not be available for the next few weeks, but we hope to have him fit and ready to go for the London Irish game at Headingley in a few weeks time."

Key has also appealed to fans to come to Headingley and make the stadium a fortress.

Leeds attendances averaged over 7,000 the last time they were in the top-flight.

They have sold 1,300 season tickets to date, 700 down on the club's target.

"We need the fans to come down and get behind us, they have a massive part to play," stated Key.

"We are an exciting team that will compete very well in the championship, but we have to prove that to people.

"To everyone out there, come and see us. Come and watch what we've put in place.

"Come and look at the new players we've brought into the squad and how excited they are to be involved with this Leeds team.

"We are happy where we are, we are confident and we are looking forward to this week's game."

BBC Radio Leeds will have full match commentary of every Leeds Guinness Premiership game and Anglo-Welsh Cup matches, plus home European games.

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