Championship top-scorer Ryan Brierley has signed a new three-year deal with Leigh Centurions, ending speculation of a move to Super League.
The 21-year-old has crossed the whitewash 12 times in his first four games of 2014 and, in doing so, attracted the attention of several top-tier clubs including Salford Red Devils. Brierley has openly stated he wants to play in Super League, so signing this contract validates Leigh’s intent to reach the game’s pinnacle.
Centurions head of rugby Derek Beaumont said: “This sends out a clear message about the ambition and determination of everyone at Leigh Centurions to secure a place in Super League and build the club for the future. We are delighted to have agreed a three-year deal with Ryan to replace his existing one and to cover full- time. He believes in Paul and respects my vision and honesty. We value Ryan highly and have moved to reward him accordingly.
“His deal will certainly secure his short term future at Leigh and if we have then reached our goals we will all be delighted. Ryan is a very humble person who works extremely hard at his game and is a great role model. He is such a marketable player and one that we believe is capable of being the best in the game.”
Head coach Paul Rowley added: “Ryan is a pleasure to coach. He is an ambitious player and a good person with a great family behind him. He is a star and someone we can build a club around.”
