“Refused to play the role of Ronnie the Rhino anymore at birthday parties” – how social media reacted to Luke Gale being stripped of the captaincy

It was one of the most surprising news events in rugby league this year, but Luke Gale being stripped of the captaincy certainly got people talking on social media. But, just what exactly were they saying?

One Leeds fan was looking forward to seeing how Gale responded on the field.

I'm not really bothered what happend with Luke Gale and think the club have been measured and handled the situation well. All that really matters is how Gale responds on the pitch. #leedsrhinos

— Dan (@CuppaBrew) July 26, 2021

A different supporter had a conspiracy theory of his own as to why Gale was removed of the captaincy.

"Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that Luke Gale has been stood down as captain of the club for behaviours not aligned to team trademarks."

Rumour is Gale took out a mortgage with a rival building society, and Leeds Building Society forced the Rhinos to act. https://t.co/ofA1xGPA4f

— Bullock Shed (@BullockShed) July 26, 2021

Another called for all parties to move on.

Obviously we don't know the details but I think it would reflect poorly on all parties if on the occasion there is a fall out between club and player, they look to turf them out. Statement has been made, apology has been given and punishment has been carried out. Let's move on.

— Liam Plumtree (@LiamPlumtree) July 26, 2021

A Hull FC fan believed it would be the end of Gale’s time at Headingley.

Gale be moving on soon then!

— SortoutthedeadwoodpleaseTony⚫️⚪️ (@patrickwmhullfc) July 26, 2021

One St Helens fan saw the funny side of things.

Luke Gale has been stood down as captain of the Leeds Rhinos for behaviours not aligned to team trademarks:

Refused to play the role of Ronnie the Rhino at any more birthday parties#rhinos #leedsrhinos

— RedVee.Net (@RedVeeDotNet) July 26, 2021

One Saints fan called for his side to sign Gale, after losing Theo Fages to injury.

Take Luke gale till the end of the season

— mark (@MarkKav15119614) July 26, 2021

It’s fair to say some definitely took the light-hearted approach to the incident.

Can’t believe Luke Gale has had captaincy stripped because he put Gel in his hair and not Wax … Agar just jealous because he hasn’t got any!! Fuming! 👩‍🦲

— Omar Alrawi (@O_Alrawi02) July 26, 2021