Derek Beaumont throws support behind latest Love Island bombshell Keanan Brand

Josh McAllister
Keanan Brand SWpix Leigh

Leigh winger Keanan Brand celebrates his try (Photo: Paul Currie / SWpix)

Leigh owner Derek Beaumont has thrown his support behind Keanan Brand following his surprise entrance to hit reality TV show Love Island. 

Brand, 24, had signed a new deal with Leigh last July that was set to run until the end of 2024.

However, while still unconfirmed by the club, it appears the Ireland international has been released from his contract to join the ITV show.

He follows in the footsteps of former Castleford forward Jacques O’Neill, who was granted a release from his contract with the Tigers so he could take up the opportunity in Love Island

Beaumont shared on social media: “There’s a Leopard in the house. Leigh’s very own Keanan Brand enters Love Island. Have the greatest time. We are all right behind you.”

Love Rugby League have since contact Leigh for comment following Brand’s departure from the club.

More on Keanan Brand

Brand came through the academy at Widnes, where he made 34 appearances. He made his first team debut in 2018 against Hull KR, before linking up with Warrington.

He spent the 2020 campaign at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, playing three first team games for the Wolves.

And he linked up with Leigh in 2021, scoring 14 tries in 36 games for the club so far. He helped the newly-rebranded Leopards win promotion to Super League last season.

The outside-back received shirt number 20 for Leigh’s return to the top division. He did not feature in their opening game against Salford last week.

He was also a part of Ireland’s World Cup squad last year under head coach Ged Corcoran, although he did not feature due to injury.

READ NEXT: Jacques O’Neill: Love Island star hoping to be back in rugby league “soon”

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Super League Keanan Brand

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