Just before the Super League season, Leeds Rhinos announced the major news that the club will be keeping star man Harry Newman until the end of the 2026 season.
This was a big announcement ahead of the new Super League season and Jon Wilkin speaking on Sky Sports Verdict had his say on the business from the Rhinos.
He said: “For anyone who isn’t familiar with Harry Newman, you’re looking at one of the best athletes in our game. A devastating carrier of the ball, real balance and pose, a game awareness that you must have at centre at the highest order and he is one of the league’s and the sport’s star players.
“Harry committing his future to Leeds alongside the recruitment of Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers from Salford Red Devils puts Leeds in a better position than they were last season and I am sure they will take great positives into the 2024 season.
“I take great delight in watching Harry Newman playing for England, making his debut for England and producing some amazing performances against Tonga. I believe he will have taken huge confidence from that.”
Jon Wilkin puts Leeds Rhinos under pressure ahead of Super League season
Hull KR v Leeds Rhinos Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 31/03/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 7 – Hull KR v Leeds Rhinos – Sewell Group Craven Park, Hull, England – Leeds Harry Newman reacts to the conditions. Hull Sewell Group Craven Park England
This came as Wilkin put huge pressure on Leeds ahead of the new season as he hit back at suggestions he is overly critical of the club.
He said: “When you say I’ve been critical it’s because I view Leeds as one of the biggest clubs in the game. They have a reputation that is connected to success. Their fans, their players, their Chief Executive Gary Hetherington who is in charge at the club demand success.
“Harry Newman knows that Leeds demand success so Leeds finishing outside the play-offs isn’t acceptable. So when you say I’ve been critical, I don’t think I have. I think I’ve been honest.
“Now can they do better in 2024? Of course they can. I think there is some genuine improvement in them. I think Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers are just sensational signings. Their chemistry at Salford was devastating and they have picked Salford’s pockets and left them looking bare but things are positive.
“Great news that Harry has signed his new contract, great new recruits but they have to go and do it on the field now.
“The pressure at Leeds never stops, it never ever stops. There have been legends at the club, so those ghosts can haunt you so they have to go and get it but I am confident they can do something this year.”
