Jones-Buchanan steps forward

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With only four specialist props in his 24-strong squad, coach Tony Smith is likely to have to summon assistance from at least one of his eight back-row forwards and Jones-Buchanan is an obvious choice, having performed the role under Smith for the Rhinos.

"I'm not assuming anything but I'd be willing to play anywhere," said Jones-Buchanan. "If I got a shirt, that would be unbelievable."

He added: "I've played prop a few times, particularly in 2005 for Tony Smith. The game is such these days that your centres and back rower are not that different physiologically to your front rowers.

"I'll do whatever job I'm given to the best of my ability, whether that's playing prop or carrying water for the lads."

Jones-Buchanan played himself into the World Cup squad after producing a strong finish to an injury-ravaged season, culminating in an impressive Grand-Final display at Old Trafford as Leeds retained their Super League title.

The 27-year-old never lost hope but he was grateful for words of encouragement from both his past and present club coaches during the dark days when a nerve injury to his shoulder threatened to wreck his season.

"Brian McClennan was really positive," he recalled. "He gave me a bit of a pat on the back and said good things happen to good people. I kept my head up and kept the rest of my body in good nick.

"I spoke to Tony a couple of times. He told me I wasn't going to be playing against France because I hadn't played much rugby, which was fair enough.

"It was real good that he spoke to me. Little things like that keep you in the loop and encourage you to keep going when you're down."