Ian Blease explains why he decided to leave Salford Red Devils for Leeds Rhinos

QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Salford players?

Thank you “excited” to start at Headingley

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The 59-year-old has been with Salford since 2016 but has had a long playing career in red, however he has emphasized his intention to start working at Headingley and start with Leeds Rhinos even if it doesn’t start until next week. .

He explained: “I’m so excited, I don’t officially start until next Monday so I’m going to take some time to strategize and think about what I want to do. With the guidance of Gary and the board, I will be looking at all things rugby operationally and with the Rhinos.

“I’m looking forward to it, but I’ll take my time to think and do things in business. I’m not going to rush things and hopefully the fans will support that and we’ll get a bounce back in the next home game against Leigh next Friday.”

Asked what drew him to sign for Leeds Rhinos, Blease pointed to the club’s history, arguing: “I think since I’ve been a player it’s been a massive club. I’m not saying Salford aren’t, but there are levels in Super League and Leeds have always been a significant club that I’ve admired from afar.

“I think this is an exciting time to be joining such a historic and iconic club with a heritage known around the world.”

What will Ian Blease do at Leeds Rhinos?

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Outlining his role, Blease explained that he will focus on leading Leeds Rhinos into a new era with a pure rugby focus.

He said: “From speaking to Gary and other board members, I know my role is clear. I can come in and take over the rugby side of things which will start with an in-depth analysis of what is working well and what needs to happen to take us forward.

“I will then report back to the board to make those adjustments where necessary. It’s a new era for the club. I think we can both learn a lot from each other with the aim of getting the club back to where it belongs at the top of the Super League and winning trophies again.

“I can’t wait to meet everyone. From the outside, I’ve always had great admiration for the way Rhinos and AMT Headingley operate. I have enjoyed every minute of my time as a player and manager at Salford and it took one of the biggest jobs in World Rugby League to leave the club.”