New sporting director Ian Blease has three questions for Leeds Rhinos fans – Total Rugby League

NEW Leeds Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease asked three things from fans of his new club.

Blease, who will start his new role on June 17 after eight years at Salford Red Devils, was announced as the new Rhinos man earlier.

Leeds, meanwhile, have endured a difficult 2024 Super League campaign, with the club currently outside the top six play-offs after an inconsistent start to the year.

This has led to some Rhinos supporters questioning the direction of the club under head coach Rohan Smith.

But Blease addressed the Leeds fans in his first address as the Rhinos’ new sporting director: “I would ask three things of the Leeds fans. Firstly you get behind the team from this week at Hull FC, what makes Rhinos special is the incredible family that is the club’s fan base, with you behind the team it gives the boys such an edge.

“Secondly, I ask them for patience. This is a new and exciting role which I believe will give us a strategic direction and an identity going forward that everyone, players, coaches and supporters can believe in. But it will take a lot of work and time, however, once settled, we will all enjoy it. success together.

“Finally, help us make AMT Headingley a fortress again. I know Leeds fans want their team to play with flair but I remember all too well from my playing days that while Iestyn Harris produced some magic he came from behind the opposition being taken in front by the likes of Barrie McDermott . , Adrian Morley and Darren Fleary.

“We will work hard to create an identity we can be proud of for years to come, and that starts here at home.”

Meanwhile, Blease spoke of his excitement at taking on such a role at such a historic club: “I think it’s an exciting time to be joining such a historic and iconic club with a heritage known around the world. From talking 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’s working well and what needs to happen to take us forward, then I’ll 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.”

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