THE man expected to become the UK’s next Prime Minister says he wants more investment in Rugby League “at every single level”.

Andy Burnham is currently the sole contender to become leader of the Labour Party and claim the keys to Downing Street following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation.

He’s set to take office later this month, just seven years after finishing a twelve-month stint as ceremonial president of the Rugby Football League.

Burnham saw his favourite Rugby League side, Leigh Leopards, beat Warrington Wolves on Saturday at Magic Weekend, held at the Hill Dickinson Stadium home of the football team he supports, Everton.

And speaking to Sky Sports ahead of kick-off, he said: “I would back this sport from the highest office. 

“Sir Lindsay Hoyle does that with great distinction as Speaker of the House of Commons. Perhaps the two of us can form a pretty powerful access for this sport. 

“This sport does need more. It’s a brilliant spectacle. This Magic Weekend is fantastic, at this great new home for Everton. I think Rugby League deserves more. 

“We saw Sir Kevin (Sinfield) get his rightful recognition, but where is Rugby League’s recognition more broadly? 

“Where is the investment in the grassroots facilities? We’ve got amazing infrastructure in the Wigan borough (Burnham won the Makerfield parliamentary constituency last month) but they do a lot of it themselves. 

“I’d like to see more backing for the sport at every single level. You’ll have two powerful backers if all the plans (to become PM) are fulfilled.”