TABLE-topping Leigh are gearing up for Rangi Chase’s return, possibly as early as Sunday’s Kingstone Press Championship trip to Dewsbury Rams.

The former England international and 2011 Man of Steel has missed Centurions’ last six games for undisclosed reasons.

But coach Neil Jukes confirmed Chase is close to making his first appearance since a 24-20 home win over London Broncos on February 21.

The former Castleford and Salford half back also took to Instagram to tell his followers:”Hopefully on the field next week enjoying what I do #Leyther.

Chase also posted a photo of UFC mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor and a quote following his recent defeat by Nate Diaz:”I’ve been here many times in my life in some form or another. I’ll eat it and come back stronger.”

Jukes was more under stated when asked about Chase’s likely return to first team action.

“We are just monitoring Rangi’s fitness,” he said. “He is not far off but whether it’s this week or next I am not sure yet. We will keep assessing.

“We have not got the biggest of squads and we need as many players back as we can. It puts pressure from within on the other players for selection.”

And Jukes, a Championship coach of the month contender for March, could have a team choice dilemma.

Cory Paterson, Gareth Hock, Tom Spencer and Liam Kay should be available after illness. Willie Tonga (knee) and Greg Worthington (abductor muscle) are closing in on full fitness while Lee Smith is expected to pass a head test after being forced off with concussion during Centurions’ 40-24 win at Workington on Easter Monday.

However, Andrew Dixon may be out for a month with medial ligament damage.

Leigh travel to New Crown Flatt top of the Championship having won their last five league and cup games.

“We will be in for a battle,” says Jukes. “Dewsbury can get themselves up for the big games.

“The ones they have lost, on paper, they probably should have won. But they beat Sheffield- a full-time outfit- and knocked Bradford out of the Cup. So, they can do it.

“We have never come away from there with a big win. It’s always been a tough game to get the result and this weekend will be no different.

Centurions have advertised for a full-time, additional assistant coach for next season with the right candidate handed the chance to start work immediately.

Applications and a CV should be sent to CEO Matthew Chantler (Matthew.Chantler@leighrl.co.uk) by April 17. Jukes and right hand man, Paul Anderson, recently agreed extended deals.

*Martyn Ridyard, Leigh’s third highest points scorer in the club’s history, will make his 200th appearance for the club if selected to face Dewsbury.

*Leigh will wear a one-off kit for the Summer Bash clash with Bradford at Blackpool on May 28. And fans get to choose the design. To view the three available choices and then vote visit www.leighcenturions.com