Chris Chester reveals which Leigh Leopards signing is a “statement of intent” and could create a great partnership

Leigh rebranded yesterday as the Leigh Leopards as they announced their return to Super League with 10 massive signings.

They brought in Grand Finalists Tom Briscoe and Zak Hardaker from Leeds, five Warrington Wolves stars as well Castleford Tigers halfback Gareth O’Brien.

But perhaps the pick of the bunch was Huddersfield centre Ricky Leutele who Director of Rugby has described as “one of the top centres” in Super League.

He also believes that he could form a dangerous partnership with one of Leigh’s current stars in the shape of halfback Lachlan Lam who has already shown what he can do at the top level with an impressive display in the World Cup against Tonga for Papua New Guinea in which he scored.

So, it seems that Leutele will be down the same side as Lam and could form a formidable relationship down that edge.

Excited by the signing, Director of Rugby Chester said: “Ricky is undoubtedly one of the top centres in the whole of Super League and is a huge coup for Leigh Leopards.

“He’s a player that excites everyone when he gets his hands on the ball and I am sure will form a great relationship with Lachlan Lam on the left edge.

“I can’t stress enough how important I believe this signing is for the club and a major statement of intent.”

A statement signing, but one that points to change for Nene MacDonald who played down that side this season.

This could either see him move to the other side or indeed leave as is rumoured.