Jon Wilkin and Sam Tomkins hint at Tony Smith’s next move following confirmation of his Hull KR exit

Tony Smith leaving Hull KR during the week was a bombshell to all concerned.

His players, his staff and his fans did not see it coming after turning the club around from basement dwellers to play-off contenders.

And, for Sky Sports pundits Jon Wilkin and Sam Tomkins, it was more than just a coincidence that his exit was announced just an hour before Rohan Smith – his nephew – was given the Leeds Rhinos job.

“There’s not many dots that need joining that up,” Wilkin said on Sky Sports.

“You look at how Hull KR have been going – what a result against Hull FC – look at Tony Smith’s reaction to that was incredible.

“There’s something going on in the background, maybe a fractious relationship in the background of the club.

“I think he has spotted a chance to go in and mentor Rohan Smith at Leeds and it’s what the club needs.”

Tomkins was of the same opinion as Wilkin completely.

“It makes sense,” Tomkins said.

“As we saw, it’s not a problem with the players as Hull KR looks like a really enjoyable place to play.

“He (Smith) gives you freedom, he’s a great guy to be playing for and wherever he goes he will have an impact.

“If I was a betting man I would say he was going to Leeds.”