Brian McDermott tips Joe Vickery to earn Leeds Rhinos deal

Leeds Rhinos coach Brian McDermott has revealed that Australian trialist Joe Vickery is likely to be offered a permanent contract at the club.

The 23-year-old utility back, who is on trial at Headingley, scored two tries as the Super League champions beat Wakefield Wildcats 40-26 on Boxing Day.

"That's put him in a strong position," said McDermott. "You can't be signing blokes on how they train but he has done everything asked of him so we were leaning that way anyway.

"That's now put him in good shape for when the decision comes."

Vickery was on the verge of joining Hull last year, but his proposed move to Humberside fell through at the last minute.