“I think…” – Leigh Leopards boss Adrian Lam addresses links to Hull FC job

Leigh Leopards are in a difficult position, both on and off the pitch. On it, they have managed just two wins so far in Super League. Off the field, they are faced with a period of transition. Key players Oliver Holmes and John Asiata will join Hull FC at the end of the season. A large proportion of Leigh’s squad are also off-contract.

Alongside the legions of players off contract is head coach, Adrian Lam. Lam took over in 2022 and guided the side out of the Championship to their Challenge Cup triumph last year. Lam also led the Leopards into the playoffs last season.

However, in recent weeks, speculation has started to increase that Lam may not be at the Leigh Sports Village next year. Having previously been linked to the vacancy at South Sydney Rabbitohs, he is now rumoured to be on the shortlist for the Hull FC job.

Now speaking in his weekly press conference, Lam has moved to address these rumours.

Leigh Leopards coach speaks on future

Lam began by stating that he was becoming used to the speculation surrounding his future. His focus currently remains on attempting to turn things around on the field at Leigh.

“I was linked with the Souths job last week, it’s Hull this week, it’s probably someone else next week”, Lam said.

“I don’t want to get too caught up with negotiating or talking to other clubs that may be of interest or all speculation in my opinion.

“I just focus on us as the team and our performance is on a day-to-day and a week-to-week basis on where I am. Obviously, I’m off contract at the end of the year. I think that’s been highly spoken about and that’s probably why these sorts of links keep coming up”

Lam’s future may take time to be resolved

Lam, who also spent time in charge of Wigan Warriors, does not believe his future will be resolved in the immediate future. He did, however, confirm he is in regular contact with Leigh owner, Derek Beaumont.

“I’m forever having conversations with Derek and the club about my situation as coach. Nothing’s changed from a week ago and nothing will probably change in a week or a month.

“It might take three months, I’m not too sure, but like I said, I’ll try to push those things aside and make sure that I focus on this team, because we need to start winning. You know, we are in a difficult position on the table and my whole focus is set on that.”

Lam refused to be drawn on the Hull FC opportunity specifically. However, he did state that he was aware that there are opportunities away from Leigh. Given the fickle nature of professional sport, he believes it is common sense to understand where opportunities exist. This may be a cause for concern for Leigh fans, hoping Lam will commit to the club.

 “I haven’t had any thoughts down those lines,” Lam answered when asked if he would consider the Hull job. “As a professional in any business or way of life, if you are up for contract, you have to talk and speak where the opportunities are. That’s just common sense.”