Dave Furner's fired up for life at Leeds Rhinos

The Australian, who won the Grand Final with Leeds in 2004, met the media for the first time yesterday just hours after landing in the UK.

He has been tasked with reviving the fallen champions’ fortunes after they were marooned in the Qualifiers for the second time in just three years.

Rhinos have made the ‘marquee’ signing of Tonga centre Konrad Hurrell for 2019 and captured his international colleague Tui Lolohea as they begin the rebuilding process under the watch of director of rugby Kevin Sinfield.

Furner confirmed he wants two more “world-class” signings and confirmed they are in talks with Australia prop Trent Merrin. Sinfield said the club hoped to add a second ‘marquee’ player in time for 2019.

Asked what would constitute success next year given what happened this time around, Furner, 47, said: “I’ve got to get to know the rest of the squad.

“There will be some little changes in the way we may play in certain areas but for me I’m not going to put any pressure on the squad.

“We can talk about a rebuild and we’ve got some good young kids coming through. I’m excited about Tui and Konrad coming and there is excitement in that young academy team as well.

“But that’s my thoughts at the moment and we start training Monday.”