Zak Hardaker is going about his business quietly at the Leeds Rhinos since making the move after leaving the Wigan Warriors.
Despite returning to Headingley under a flurry of media attention, Hardaker has answered his critics with a number of superb performances, whilst his maturity on and off the field has been a joy to behold.
Having only signed a short-term deal until the end of the 2022 Super League season, much has been made of where the 30-year-old’s future lies beyond that – and whether it will be Headingley or not.
And, Leeds fans have now had their say on the matter with an overwhelming agreement on the subject.
One fan tweeted: “I changed my tune on this matter. Yes he should be offered a new deal. 2 years with a option in the clubs favour for a third year.”
I changed my tune on this matter.
Yes he should be offered a new deal. 2 years with a option in the clubs favour for a third year.— Matthew Clough (@fieldheadrhino1) August 11, 2022
Another person said: “Without a shadow of a doubt, he’s playing exceptionally well and can play numerous positions, give #Zak a new deal.”
Without a shadow of a doubt, he's playing exceptionally well and can play numerous positions, give #Zak a new deal.
— Phil (@Fil1966) August 11, 2022
Another echoed that sentiment, though called for Hardaker to only be given a one-year deal: “Yes, I’d only offer him a one year deal though cos he seems to play better when he’s on a short term contract.”
Yes, I’d only offer him a one year deal though cos he seems to play better when he’s on a short term contract.
— Oli Warman (@WarmanOliver) August 11, 2022
That seemed to be a common idea, a one-year deal for the best for all parties: “We’ve improved since he joined , definitely yes. 1 year rolling deal.”
We’ve improved since he joined , definitely yes. 1 year rolling deal
— Graham Harvey (@GHConstruct) August 11, 2022
One more person called Hardaker the best fullback at Headingley.
“Yes, best fullback at the club and one of the reasons for the turn around in results.”
Yes, best full back at the club and one of the reasons for the turn around in results
— Adam Jenkins (@AJLEEDS1) August 11, 2022
Another said he wouldn’t be the happiest if Hardaker wasn’t offered a deal: “I for one will be extremely pissed off if Zak isn’t offered at least a years contract. From the moment he put the shirt back on that lad has given his all. A true Rhino…”
I for one will be extremely pissed off if Zak isn't offered at least a years contract. From the moment he put the shirt back on that lad has given his all. A true Rhino… #ALAW #RTID #MOT.
— Kolf (@Kolf1972) August 11, 2022
Even a Wigan fan hailed the former Warriors star: “Yes, @zakhardaker1 has been one of the reasons Leeds have had a good turn in games. I was disappointed with the way things ended with wigan but it is what it is. He is still an absolute class player.”
Another waxed lyrical about the fullback: “Absolutely. Superb player and been absolute class for us since he came back.”
Absolutely. Superb player and been absolute class for us since he came back.
— Lee Southam (@ShireOakDriving) August 12, 2022
