Boost for Leeds Rhinos as 'gifted and talented' Liam Sutcliffe agrees long-term contract

Leeds Rhinos' longest-serving player, Liam Sutcliffe, has had a change of heart and signed a new contract which will keep him at the club until the end of 2024.
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The 26-year-old, who made his debut in 2013, had another season left on his previous deal, but asked to go on the transfer list last July.

At the time he said he needed “something different and a bit of a change”, but Sutcliffe insisted the decision to stay put is “the right one for me and my future”.

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Sutcliffe’s extended deal is a boost to Rhinos who will begin their Betfred Super League campaign against Wakefield Trinity at Emerald Headingley six weeks tomorrow, on Saturday, March 27.

Liam Sutcliffe pictured during last year's Cup semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.Liam Sutcliffe pictured during last year's Cup semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
Liam Sutcliffe pictured during last year's Cup semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

The Leeds-born, former Hunslet Warriors junior was one of Rhinos’ most impressive players over the second half of last season, after settling into the left-centre role when Harry Newman suffered a broken leg in September.

He was part of the team which beat Salford Red Devils in the following month’s Challenge Cup final, adding to the winner’s medal he received in the same competition in 2014.

He also played in Rhinos’ 2017 Grand Final triumph and was capped by England at full and Knights level three years ago.

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Sutcliffe has scored 58 tries, 258 goals and a drop goal in 183 games for Leeds and played a variety of roles including full-back, the halves and second-row, but flourished in a settled position last term.

Liam Sutcliffe training at Kirkstall this week. Picture by  Phil Daly/Leeds Rhinos.Liam Sutcliffe training at Kirkstall this week. Picture by  Phil Daly/Leeds Rhinos.
Liam Sutcliffe training at Kirkstall this week. Picture by Phil Daly/Leeds Rhinos.

“I am pleased to have got it sorted after everything that went on last year, that resulted in me handing in a transfer request,” he said.

“The club were great with me and since coming back after lockdown last year, Richard [Agar, Rhinos’ coach] and Kevin [Sinfield, director of rugby] have spoken to me about the role they see me playing at the club.

“I have had plenty of time to think about this decision so I know it is the right one for me and my future.”

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Sutcliffe is one of the most versatile players in the European game, having also played for Leeds at full-back, in the halves and second-row.

“I made my debut when I was 18, I am now 26 and it does feel like I have been at the club for a long time,” he added.

“However, I want to be part of this squad going forward and helping us achieve more success in the coming years.”

Agar made it clear last year he sees Sutcliffe as a key part of his team’s plans.

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“I am really pleased he sees his future here,” he said of the player’s new deal.

“He has achieved an incredible amount so far in his career and his form at the end of last season was not only consistent, but of a very high level.

“He is a naturally gifted and talented player.”

Sinfield also welcomed Sutcliffe’s about-turn.

He said: “We knew this was an important decision for Liam at this stage of his career.

“We are delighted he has committed his long term future to the Rhinos.

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“His partnership with Ash Handley last season was a real bright spot and it will be great to see that flourish this season with a good pre-season together.”

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