Bradford forward Steve Menzies is predicting a tough battle for Super League champions Leeds when they take on his old Manly Sea Eagles team in the Carnegie World Club Challenge on Sunday.

The 35-year-old ended a glorious 15-year career with the Sea Eagles by helping them to a 40-0 victory over Melbourne in October's NRL Grand Final and is one of three members of that team now playing in Super League.

Centre Steve Bell is with Catalans Dragons and Mark Bryant has joined Celtic Crusaders but Manly coach Des Hasler is still able to field 13 members of his Grand Final line-up.

"They haven't really lost a lot from the starting side," said Menzies. "They're a great side and I think they will do pretty well."

History is against the Sea Eagles, who are hoping to halt a run of five consecutive wins by Super League clubs, but Menzies believes they could have the trump card in Hasler.

"Dessie is a pretty intense coach," said Menzies. "He gets little things right that are important to the club.

"I suppose it's hard for Australian teams who haven't played games but Dessie will want to put on a good show. He will want to win so they will be preparing as best they can."

Leeds are aiming to become the first team to successfully defend their World Club crown, thanks to their 11-4 win over Melbourne a year ago, but coach Brian McClennan is under no illusions over the size of their task.

"They are a fantastic team and a great club with a proud history," he said. "I can't remember a side dominating the play-off series like they did last season and they will be hoping to continue that form on Sunday.

"That makes for a tremendous challenge for us and one that is very exciting. They are a well-coached side.

"Des Hasler has worked hard over the past few years to revive the club and his success has been seen with them first of all reaching the finals, then competing in the Grand Final in 2007 and finally winning it last year.

"Hopefully, the match on Sunday will be a great advert for our great game and I am looking forward to it."