Former Super League player Ian Blease, who has been chief executive of Salford Red Devils since 2016, is Leeds Rhinos’ new sporting director.
The 59-year-old was confirmed in the role at a press conference at AMT Headingley today . He will oversee Rhinos’ entire rugby operation, taking over from chief executive Gary Hetherington who is now focussing on off-field matters. Blease joined Salford as a player in 1985 and made 252 appearances before joining hometown club Swinton in 1998. He returned to the Red Devils as chief executive in 2016.
Despite a limited budget they have become known for recruiting – and sometimes selling on at a profit – top players, including current Leeds duo Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers. Blease’s appointment will increased speculation over the future of under-pressure Rhinos coach Rohan Smith. Salford team boss Paul Rowley has previously been linked with the Rhinos job and turned down a possible move to Hull FC earlier this year.
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