Rob Burrow’s family and club pay heartbreaking tribute to ‘true inspiration who didn’t let others define what he could achieve’

Former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrowwho raised awareness after his motor neurone disease diagnosis, has died aged 41.

The club confirmed the news in a statement shared a short while ago as they paid tribute to a “beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend”.

Burrow, who played at number seven, won eight Super League titles with Leeds Rhinos before being diagnosed with the disease aged 37.

Read more: Rob Burrow dies live updates as tributes pay to Leeds Rhinos star

In a statement, a Leeds Rhinos spokesman said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend.

“Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life, whether it was on the rugby league field or during his battle with motor neurone disease. He never let others define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more.

“The outpouring of love and support that Rob and the entire Burrow family have received over the past four and a half years has meant so much to Rob. In particular the rugby league family and motor neurone community have rallied around Rob to support him, thank you for your support.

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He continued: “For those who have known Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit in the face of motor neurone disease over the past four and a half years have come as no surprise. Rob never accepted that he couldn’t do something, he just found his own way of doing it better than anyone else. He will continue to inspire us every day.

“In a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream.”