McClennan signs Leeds extension

Super League Champions Leeds have confirmed that Head Coach Brian McClennan has agreed a new one year contract extension with the club.

McClennan joined the Rhinos in November 2007 and has since led the club to back to back titles in Super League as part of a historic treble of Championships. The former New Zealand national boss initially signed a two year contract and this is his second twelve month extension.

Commenting on the new contract Chief Executive Gary Hetherington said, “Our intention was always to have Brian here for next season and that has never been an area of doubt for me or Brian. The plan has always been for Brian to be here for a fourth season and perhaps beyond that point. He now has one and half seasons left on his contract however whilst Brian and I have the working relationship that we have, the length of his contract is not an issue.”

McClennan, who will lead his team against Wigan this Saturday in the Carnegie Challenge Cup Quarter Final at Headingley Carnegie, added, “I am happy here as long as the club, the players and my family are happy with me and that remains the case and I am pleased about that. I think the length of the contract is the best way to go for a club as big as Leeds and it also suits me and my family, as we are a long way from home.

“There has been a lot of speculation from outside of our organisation about my future but that is not something I have paid any attention too. Our focus has always been on this season. As professionals we live in games, weeks and seasons, we are in the middle of a very exciting season at the moment and I am excited about this weeks challenge against Wigan.

“We have faced some adversity this season but we are rising to the challenge each time and I am very proud to be Head Coach of this great club,” added McClennan.