Ryan Brierley extends Leigh loan until the end of the season

Toronto Wolfpack half-back Ryan Brierley will remain on loan at their Championship rivals Leigh until the end of the season.

Brierley, 27, has scored five tries and seven goals in four games for the Centurions during an initial one-month deal.

The extension makes him eligible for both 1895 Cup and play-off games.

Coach John Duffy said: “Ryan didn’t want to leave Leigh after his loan spell and he’s been trying his hardest to get his release from Toronto for the opportunity to get his career back on track.

“He was great for us and added real value to the squad. He scored some fantastic tries.

“It’s a different scenario now. He’s got to force his way into a team that’s on a winning run and playing well. It’s a great headache for me as a coach as competition for places is hotting up in all positions at this crucial stage of the season.”

Brierley made his name at Leigh, topping the club’s try-scoring charts in four successive seasons, including scoring 43 in 2014.

He moved on to Huddersfield in March 2016 before joining a strong former Leigh contingent at Toronto in April 2017.

Brierley said: “Going back on loan to Leigh was like I’d never been away. Leigh’s where me and my family call home and where I’ve played my best rugby. The lads themselves, the fans and Duffs played a massive part in me making this decision.

“In the short time I had back the improvement in my game was massive and I owe Leigh Centurions a massive thanks for having faith in me and rescuing me from a dark place.

“It’s been a tough and confusing eight to ten months for me and coming back to Leigh is fantastic. At one stage I thought it would never happen but I’m so happy it has.”