Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow gives heartfelt message following health update

Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow will forever go down in history as one of the greatest players and characters to have ever stepped foot on a rugby league field.

The diminutive number seven was able to defy claims about his short stature and become one of the most decorated players in rugby league folklore, but since November 2019, Burrow has been locked in a vociferous battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Now, the former Rhinos star speaks through a voice monitor as he

Burrow and his family were present at the Magic Weekend event at the home of Newcastle United – St James’ Park – with his two daughters, Macy and Maya, designing Leeds’ shirt for the special occasion.

The two girls picked out a stunning design with blue and yellow colouring as the Rhinos ran out 34-20 winners against bitter rivals Castleford Tigers.

Following the weekend and that game, Burrow took to social media to emphasise just how good the weekend was and how lucky he feels.

Burrow tweeted: “We had the best day yesterday. Thanks to all fans who made me and the girls so welcome. I know I am biased but didn’t the shirt look amazing. It was so obviously a stand out in the crowd. I’m the luckiest lad in the world.”

We had the best day yesterday. Thanks to all fans who made me and the girls so welcome. I know I am biased but didn't the shirt look amazing. It was so obviously a stand out in the crowd. I'm the luckiest lad in the world.

— Rob Burrow CBE (@Rob7Burrow) July 10, 2022

Leeds head coach Rohan Smith waxed lyrical about the impact of Burrow on the Headingley club following the win over Castleford: “To see a great player of our time is tough for everyone. I listened to his book on audio and it’s clear to see that Rob was a big part of what has happened at the club.

“To share the day with the family meant a lot to the whole club. We spoke about it during the week not to make it too emotional.

“We had the pleasure of his family coming to speak to us before the game and Rob’s two beautiful girls.”

Burrow’s former teammate Barrie McDermott interviewed the Burrow family for Sky Sports over the weekend at the showpiece event in Newcastle and his wife Lindsey said it was nice to be back at the Magic Weekend: “It’s been brilliant to be back here especially after Covid. Lots of special memories and special for us to come back as a family.”

She also gave an update on Rob’s health, stating: “He’s doing well, as well as he can be. He’s still got that smile on his face. He’s still going and he’ll keep fight his best fight.”