Leeds Red Devils – Leeds Rhinos fans react to the appointment of Ian Blease

Leeds Rhinos fans have reacted to the appointment of Ian Blease as the club’s new sporting director, joining from Salford Red Devils.

Blease was announced at a press conference today after spending seven-and-a-half years in his role with hometown Salford.

He joins Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers in moving to Headingley from the Red Devils – two players he sold for significant sums.

Former Super League referee Richard Silverwood was quick to praise the appointment, saying: “This is a great appointment for Leeds.

“He knows the game, a very smart businessman who was an agent, so he knows a lot for a player. A defeat for Salford but a great move Leeds.”

However, since the news was confirmed, many Leeds fans have also reacted to Blease’s appointment.

Quiz: Can you name all these former Leeds Rhinos players?

Leeds Rhinos fans react to the appointment of Ian Blease

Credit: Imago Images

In his new role, Blease will have significant control over the head coaching role — and who holds it.

Head coach Rohan Smith has been under a lot of pressure this year, with many calling for him to follow his uncle Tony through the Super League exit door.

Leeds Rhinos fans were quick to use the encounter as another opportunity to call for his head:

Now fire Rohan, Ian. 👍🏼

— Oli Warman (@WarmanOliver) June 10, 2024

The first blacksmith job 💙💛

— Richard Hardy (@Richard84392138) June 10, 2024

Despite this, it appears that Smith will remain in his role.

Blease said in his press conference today: “I’m not going to pick people to focus on. He (Rohan Smith) is a good guy.

“I don’t know exactly what he’s been working on behind the scenes, but I’ll spend time in the trainers’ room with him to see how he works.

“Gary (Hetherington, CEO) tells me good things about him and it’s too early to judge him at this point.”

Fans have also pointed out that this marks yet another move from Salford Red Devils to Leeds Rhinos, following the huge signings of Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers earlier this season.

They commented:

Next we will change the kit to red!

– Paul Moran (@MD_Leeds) June 10, 2024

#leedsreddevils 🤣

— Graeme Roberts (@G11Roberts) June 10, 2024

However, some only expressed their thoughts on whether it was a good date or not with overwhelming emotion.

Welcome to the club Ian. Excellent meeting.

– Bradley Asquith (@BradAsquith7) June 10, 2024

A sensible appointment, Ian is someone who knows the game through and through, having been a player, agent and general manager.

The key message I took from the press conference was that there will be no rash decisions so let’s get behind the boys home and away https://t.co/Mv5pcRRVFE

— Stat Man Rhys (@statmanrhys) June 10, 2024

It’s something we need, it’s a positive meeting for the club. Let’s see where it takes us. https://t.co/fsKzXzIdqX

— Dan (@CuppaBrew) June 10, 2024

They’ve certainly needed some good news for a while, Leeds Rhinos fans – they’ll be hoping it continues.