Highly-rated Leeds Rhinos youngster Corey Johnson quits rugby league

Rhinos say the England academy hooker has retired to "focus on a career outside the sport".

Johnson made his first-team debut in the final game of last season and played in Rhinos' opening pre-season match on Boxing Day.

Club officials have tried to persuade Johnson to change his mind, but a deal has now been agreed for him to leave the club.

The door has been left open for him to return if he rediscovers his love for the sport.

Rhinos director of Rugby Kevin Sinfield said: “We have been speaking with Corey for a number of weeks about what he would like to do in the future.

"Our first concern is always the welfare of our players, especially the younger members of the squad.

"We will remain in contact with Corey and provide him with any support he needs.”