Leeds Rhinos star Harry Newman on NRL and rugby union interest

Harry Newman is one of the best players in Super League when fit.

If you were cooking up the ideal modern player, he would look a lot like Harry Newman with flair and skill but it is his physical attributes that make him perfect for the modern game with power, speed, agility and explosivity.

So, it is no surprise that he has been courted by plenty of clubs. In fact, it was well documented that before he signed a new deal last year he had offers from the NRL and rugby union.

When asked about this, he showed his commitment to Leeds saying:

“I have signed a contract here, I have stayed here for a reason. We have a great group of lads. Yes there was interest from elsewhere but I chose to stay here and I am committed to be here for the next two years, I want to get back out on the field and the rest will take care of itself.”

After a double leg break in 2020, Newman returned in red hot form at the end of 2021 and looked like a terrifying prospect in pre-season till a hamstring injury in Tom Briscoe’s testimonial against Hull FC set him back.

He returned to devastate Wakefield crossing for a try but suffered another hamstring injury.

Again he returned and again looked exceptional until he picked up a third hamstring injury against Hull KR.

As he battled to be back fit for the Grand Final, things got worse ending his World Cup hopes with England.

As he gets ready for the 2023 season, Newman gave an update on his hamstring injury.

He said: “It’s going really well, it has been a tough few months, tough couple of seasons really missing major games for Leeds and the potential to play in the World Cup.

“We are just taking it day by day and we have great staff working with me. I am just looking forward to the new season.”

When asked when he might be back in the mix, Newman said: “I am just taking it day by day, week by week. I don’t want to rush anything I have rushed things in the past so I just want to get ready.”

Newman also reflected on missing out on the Grand Final: “Personally it was heartbreaking, they’re the game you want to play in but for the team I was buzzing.

“There were a few of us who missed out, we will look to get there again and win it.

“I want to be back out there and consistently and I know what I can do. It’s just getting out there.”