LIAM Hood returns to Headingley tonight (Thursday) with a warning for Leeds pal, Brad Singleton: “I’m coming for you.’

But happy hooker Hood insists he’s not out to prove a point against his former paymasters as Leigh look to cap a remarkable Middle 8s campaign with victory against last season’s Treble winners.

Centurions’ 42-24 victory over Batley and the Rhinos’ 22-14 defeat at Huddersfield leaves Neil Jukes’ side at the top of the eight team mini league.

Skipper and Championship player of the year, Micky Higham, is back to face Brian McDermott’s men after being rested for the Bulldogs’ visit.

But Hood, who made a try scoring Super League debut for Leeds against Castleford in 20212, is likely to pip Lewis Foster for the second hooking role.

The 24-year-old- has played at Hunslet, Salford and Swinton since leaving the Loiners though he still has strong links with his first professional club.

“I still keep in touch with a fair few of the lads,” he confirmed. “It is always nice to play against your mates and you can have a dig at them as well. And Brad Singleton is the one I am going for,” he laughed.

Despite his encouraging start to life in Super League Hood’s chances were limited at Leeds.

“There were some great players in front of me at that time: Danny Buderus, Rob Burrow and Paul McShane,” he confirmed.

“But Leeds gave me my chance and I had some great years there. So, there is no bitterness at all from me.

“I am very thankful to Leeds for letting me go and pursuing my career and cracking on with it. I am just looking forward to going back.

“I have played at Headingley and in front of the South Stand. It’s a great atmosphere and I can’t wait.”

Hood has blossomed as Higham’s understudy since moving to the club in March. And for that he thanks the contribution of ‘Captain Fantastic’ Higham.

“Micky is a real leader,” he says.

“He is the tough kind of hooker you need in your game.

“No matter how many knocks he gets or how many people run at him, he does his job brilliantly. Off the field as well he has been great too.

“If I ever need him for anything, he will always stay behind or he is always on end of a phone.”

Leigh return to Headingley for only the second time since June 2014 when they gave Leeds a mighty scare in the Challenge Cup quarter-final.

The sides were level at 12-all seven minutes from time before the Rhinos struck with two converted tries and a Kevin Sinfield drop goal. The winners will be awarded the Bev Risman Trophy.

*Former star Steve Maden will become Leigh’s player welfare officer on an initial two-year deal from late next month.