Super League

Leeds Rhinos bring in England rugby union star Marcus Smith

by
Callum Walker
November 16, 2021

Leeds Rhinos will have a new face at their training ground from time to time in the next few months.

That’s because one of Sean Long’s – Leeds’ assistant coach – former acquaintances will be gracing Headingley with his presence.

A nominee for the 2021 World Breakthrough Player of the Year, England and Harlequins RU fly-half Marcus Smith will be gaining lessons from the Rhinos in the not too distant future in a bid to improve his game and resilience.

The 22-year-old already helped Harlequins win the Premiership title in 2021, but for just over a year, Long was Smith’s attacking coach in the capital.

Of course, the former St Helens halfback sensation was appointed as assistant to Richard Agar in October last year, but has kept in touch with Smith ever since leaving.

“Marcus texted me recently and asked if he could come up to Leeds Rhinos,” Long told The Yorkshire Post.

“He asked if he could come and train with us and I said of course he can. I squared it off with Rich.

“Marcus wants to just come and see what it’s like with us and see what it’s like training in rugby league.

“It’s not that he wants to change codes or anything; he just wants to look at the challenges of rugby league compared to rugby union as he is always wanting to improve.”

For Long and Agar heading into the 2022 Super League season, it will be a case of trying to improve upon their semi-final play-off place in 2021.