Leigh issue statement on Keanan Brand entering Love Island

Leigh Leopards have confirmed that they will welcome back centre Keanan Brand after his stint on hit reality TV show Love Island. 

Brand, 24, 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.

His “bombshell” arrival shocked plenty of rugby league fans on Thursday night, with the player having only signed an extended contract until 2024 earlier in July.

Leigh have since confirmed that they will welcome back the former Widnes youngster, with owner Derek Beaumont also sharing his support on social media.

Brand linked up with the newly-rebranded Leopards in 2021, scoring 14 tries in 36 games. He was a part of their promotion-winning side to Super League. The outside-back received shirt number 20 for the 2023 campaign, but did not feature in the opening game against Salford.

Leigh release official statement on Keanan Brand

An official statement to Love Rugby League read: “Leigh Leopards are all supporting Keanan during his Love Island experience.

“We are a progressive club, supporting and advising our players when opportunities present themselves. And Keanan’s been given a chance to explore something new in a period where injury isn’t allowing him playing time.

“We look forward to welcoming him back to the club post Love Island, where he will resume training with his team-mates. We wish him the very best for his time in the villa.”

Owner Beaumont has also thrown his support behind Brand following his surprise Love Island entrance.

He 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.”

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