Leeds Rhinos: ‘One-club man’ Burrow agrees new Rhinos deal

Although fellow greats Kevin Sinfield and Jamie Peacock are calling time on their Headingley careers, the scrum-half-cum-hooker will stay until the end of 2017 at least.

Burrow will be 35 by that point but hasn’t ruled out going on longer still.

During this period of such change – while Sinfield heads to Yorkshire Carnegie and Peacock becomes football manager at Hull KR at the end of the season, prop Kylie Leuluai is expected to retire, too – it is welcome news for Rhinos fans.

Burrow, who turns 33 in September, has appeared in all six of Leeds’ Grand Final victories, twice winning the Harry Sunderland award as man of the match, and also lifted the Challenge Cup last August.

One of the most exciting players of the summer era, the former England star remains as dynamic as ever even after 423 appearances for Rhinos, which puts him tenth in the all-time list of appearances for the club.

“It has been a fantastic time in my career to be part of the Leeds Rhinos team and I want that to continue,” he said.

“This is the best club in rugby league and the only club I have ever known.

“I cannot imagine ever being anywhere else and, having grown up supporting the club, it makes it extra special that I will be able to start and finish my career here.

“That is something I have always wanted to do.

“While ever I am hungry to play and am happy with my game, I am happy to continue to play for Leeds Rhinos. This is a two year contract and as Kylie Leuluai always says ‘you never say never’!

“The group is going through a period of transition with Jamie Peacock and Kevin Sinfield leaving the club but these are exciting times and I want to play my part in helping us move forward.

“Having been involved in coaching the juniors for a while with Carl Ablett, I know we have got some quality players coming through the ranks.

“Hopefully I can help them enjoy the same sort of fantastic career I have had with the Rhinos over the next few years.”

Burrow, one of only 13 players to ever score 1,000 points for Leeds, is expected to appear again tomorrow when the Super League leaders host Hull KR.

He debuted in 2001, and has gone on to score 175 tries and 152 goals in blue and amber, endearing himself to the Leeds faithful with his attacking brilliance and constant bravery.

Although constantly linked with a potential switch to his hometown club Castleford Tigers, today’s news should finally lay that rumour to rest for Rhinos fans.

Head coach Brian McDermott said: “We are pleased to have agreed a new deal with Rob for the next two years.

“His commitment to the Rhinos and determination to succeed are great examples for any young player coming through the ranks.

“He remains a threat to all teams in Super League with his unique skills set and he has the ability to unlock any game, as we have seen on so many occasions before.”