Delaney moves in to Rhinos’ backroom

Departing forward Brett Delaney will have a Christmas swan song with Leeds Rhinos.

The 32-year-old Australian is to play his final game for Rhinos when they face Wakefield Trinity in the Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge on Boxing Day.

Delaney’s contract has now expired and he will not be part of next year’s squad, but is remaining at Emerald Headingley in a new role with the Leeds Rhinos Foundation.

He plans to continue as a part-time player at another club in 2019 and is currently considering his options. Delaney is a three-time Grand Final champion and has played in two Challenge Cup-winning teams.

He said: “When I left Australia I was a 24-year-old kid and I could never have imagined I would be privileged enough to play nine amazing seasons with a great club like Leeds.

“I would like to thank [chief executive] Gary Hetherington and [chairman] Paul Caddick for believing in me and giving me a chance to play for the Rhinos.

“I owe a debt of thanks to [former coach] Brian McDermott for everything he did for my career and likewise the great players I played alongside like Kevin Sinfield, Jamie Peacock, Kylie Leuluai, Rob Burrow, Danny McGuire and of course my old mate Ryan Bailey.

“I have run my blood to water week in and week out for the Rhinos and I wouldn’t change a thing. I understand the club need to move forward, especially as an overseas player and hopefully this will allow them to do that.”