Exiles coach Brian McClennan has named an 18-man squad for the inaugural rugby league international against England at Headingley on Friday.

McClennan is in charge of a team drawn from the overseas players employed in the Super League and selected through a combination of fan votes and his own picks.

He was initially allowed a 22-man roster but has now released Catalan forward Steve Menzies, Leeds fullback Brent Webb, Warrington hooker Michael Monaghan and St Helens forward Josh Perry.

Monaghan and Perry were left out due to the rule that only allows three players from one particular club while ex-Manly captain Menzies, who would have been the oldest man in the squad at 36, has only just returned from injury.

Webb has not been selected, with Warrington's Brett Hodgson set to start at fullback.

"The players have come straight into camp with a great attitude and have gelled really well, which is very positive," McClennan said.

"We are representing all the nations Down Under and it is an honour to be part of the first ever International Origin Game.

"There is a real buzz about the camp and the players are looking forward to training hard this week, understanding our combinations and the way we want them to play. By Friday we will be ready for the match and giving it our all to win."

Perry's omission ruled out the chance of a potential flashpoint, with the former Manly player having not faced England captain Jamie Peacock since the pair had a high-profile fight in the 2009 World Club Challenge.

"Having to reduce the squad down to the 18 has been difficult and I would like to thank those players who have missed out - they have taken it well," McClennan added.

"It is always difficult to leave quality players out and at any other time those players would have easily been involved - that shows the depth of overseas talent in the Super League."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP