Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that winger Ben Jones-Bishop will miss the start of the season after being handed a six-month period on the sidelines.

The 24-year-old suffered a blood clot on his lung during pre-season training and has been advised by the club's medical staff to avoid all contact for three months.

"It is obviously disappointing to miss the start of the season but I am looking forward now and doing everything I can to get back as soon as I can once I am given the all-clear," Jones-Bishop told the club's official website.

Head coach Brian McDermott added: "It is a real shame for Ben that he will miss the start of the season. He finished the season in great form and was a big player for us in our big games last season.

"We have no major long term concerns that this will impact on Ben's career and he will receive the best possible care over the next three months to make sure that the issue is resolved and he can resume playing."

Jones-Bishop scored 23 tries last season.