Zak Hardaker’s return to action with Leeds on hold after suspected seizure

Leeds Rhinos have revealed their new signing Zak Hardaker suffered a suspected seizure while out walking with his young son and needed the help of a paramedic who happened to be nearby.

Hardaker suffered the attack on Tuesday, the day his signing was announced, and was taken to Pinderfields hospital in Wakefield, where he underwent tests before being discharged. The 30-year-old England full-back, who was a free agent after being released by Wigan last Friday, was named by Leeds’ interim coach, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, in the initial squad for Friday’s Super League match against Hull KR at Headingley, but will understandably not now play.

“At this moment in time our only concern is Zak’s health and we will provide him and his family with whatever support is required,” said the Leeds chief executive, Gary Hetherington. “The Rhinos medical staff are overseeing things and will be arranging a series of medical tests which will then give a clearer prognosis for his recovery.”

Leeds said Hardaker, who has signed a deal to the end of the season, trained with his new teammates on Tuesday morning before a community team activity after lunch and returning home.

Hardaker said: “Firstly, I would like to say a huge thank you to the paramedic who came to my aid and administered first aid before the ambulance arrived. It does not bear to think about what might have been the outcome without her quick thinking.

“It is so disappointing that I will not get to play on Friday but the Rhinos have given me great support and I will make sure I complete all the tests necessary and I hope to be back on the field as soon as possible.”