Nearly £100k raised for Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow after motor neurone diagnosis

The father-of-three made the emotional announcement yesterday that he had been diagnosed with the rare and incurable brain and nerve condition motor neurone disease.

More than 4,500 people have now donated to a fundraiser on Virgin Money to help support Burrow in his treatment.

Fans have raised more than £90,000 towards the fund, which will also support Rob's wife and three young children who are all under the age of eight.

Burrow retired from playing at the end of the 2017 season, winning an eighth Super League Grand Final in his last game.

He made his debut in 2001 and played 492 times for Leeds Rhinos, placing him in fifth in the club’s all-time list of career appearances.

Breaking the news on Thursday, Burrow said: “Regrettably, today I am confirming that I have been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

“I would like to thank everyone for the support I have received already since being given my diagnosis.

“I know I have a big challenge in front of me, but knowing that I have the love and support of so many people will give me inspiration and strength.

“I am very positive about the situation and intend to battle the condition as I still feel fit and well.

“I would like to ask for privacy at this time so I can adjust to the battle I have ahead and so that I can spend time with those closest to me ahead of Christmas and New Year.”

-> Leeds Rhinos: Rob Burrow’s diagnosis was ‘so tough to take’, admits Keith Senior