Keanan Brand makes statement following Love Island exit

After Jacques O’Neill’s Love Island journey, another rugby league player took to the Love Island villa in the shape of Keanan Brand.

The former Warrington Wolves outside back who joined Leigh in the 2021 season on loan before making the move permanently in the 2022 season and helping the club return to Super League.

However, he has not had the chance to play in Super League since their promotion as the outside back headed to the Love Island villa as O’Neill did last year.

Brand was the latest Love Island bombshell to drop in and ruffle some feathers however his Love Island journey is now over after he was booted off last week.

🚨 Double bombshell allert! 🚨

Rosie and Keanan are ready to turn some heads #LoveIsland pic.twitter.com/HlGERuShpC

— Love Island (@LoveIsland) February 23, 2023

Speaking about Brand’s decision and what the future holds for him after the Villa, Leigh boss Adrian Lam said this week:

“Keanan is a funny guy and a really popular member of the squad.

“He approached me about it and I spoke with Derek Beaumont.

“Since the moment he mentioned it to us, the club has got right behind him.

“We’ll support him through this process and when he comes out we’ll give him the time to get right and play his part in the group.”

Adrian Lam on Keenan Brand entering the @LoveIsland villa. ☀️#Leythers pic.twitter.com/Vj8kqLG74U

— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) March 1, 2023

Thus, it appears we could see Brand back in Super League before long which can only be good for marketing.

After the departure of Brand from the Villa, Leigh said:

“You’ve done us proud, Keanan.

“All of us at Leigh Leopards can’t wait to welcome you back home.”

You’ve done us proud, Keanan. 🙌

All of us at Leigh Leopards can’t wait to welcome you back home. 🐆#Leythers pic.twitter.com/Nv46Of4eFE

— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) March 2, 2023

Now Brand has himself released a brief statement on Instagram saying thank you for the support he has had during his time on Love Island.

He said: “Yes people, I just wanted to say a big thank you really.

“I am quite overwhelmed with the level of support and love I have been shown over the past couple of days.

“I was only in there for a short period but I had the time of my life and I can’t thank you enough.

“I want to say a massive thank you and I appreciate it all.”