Phil Clarke makes big Leigh Leopards claim

Last night Leigh Leopards didn’t have the start to their Super League return that they would have liked but they showed that they can compete with the Salford Red Devils, a side many expect to push for the top four in 2023 after a stunning end to last season.

Following this Phil Clarke described them as the best promoted side in Super League history better than the likes of Hull KR in 2018 and 2007, Toronto Wolfpack who had the likes of Sonny Bill Williams and the Leigh sides of the past.

Clarke said: “In my eyes Salford were the best team to watch last season but they come here to Leigh and they couldn’t have got a more difficult opening match.

“I have been to a lot of Super League games but I don’t recall one with energy and excitement I have felt here today.

“This is in my opinion the strongest squad for a promoted side we have seen in the last 25 years.

“It is possibly the strongest squad I have Leigh have since they won the league over 40 years ago.”

He also explained why he felt this was the case:

“Previously Leigh have had only four weeks to recruit players but this time they have had four months.

“They took an educated gamble in July last season and they reap the rewards, I think the test will be if they are strong enough from squad numbers 20-30.

“In previous seasons they have become too emotional when they have won and lost, they need to be more grounded this season to be successful.”