Brierley set for Centurions return

Hull Kingston Rovers have confirmed that Ryan Brierley will be taking up a contract with Leigh Centurions for 2021.

Brierley joined Rovers in November 2019 on a one-year contract, but the Preston born half-back will be heading back to Lancashire to be closer to his family and to return to the club where it all began.

Brierley wrote an open letter to the fans for hullkr.co.uk:

“I want to say a massive thank you to Tony (Smith) and Danny (McGuire) for putting their trust in me. Being able to spend time with someone like Danny, who I looked up to, and be mentored by him is something awesome.

“I want to thank Tony for selecting me. I saw myself and Tony progressing with a really healthy relationship, but obviously that was not meant to be. 

“Through no fault of Hull KR, it’s been quite a challenge year for me off the field. The financial side that should have subsidised this opportunity never happened, and people can guess why. 

“I have had to make a decision now based on what’s best for me and my family, which would be going closer to home. Now I’m doing things right by my family and that will make me extremely happy, as well as playing close to home and for a team where it all started for me.

 “It’s not me rejecting a deal as such, and not wanting to be Hull KR, I just think the way the world is at the moment has prevented things from working out budget wise. Unfortunately, we couldn’t agree terms.

“My biggest regret is not being able to play in front of the Hull KR crowd more than I did. Running out in front of that East stand is something I’ll never forget. The people of Hull have welcomed me with open arms, and I can’t thank them enough.

“I can understand fans frustrations on social media at the moment. However, what the club are building, with the likes of the young kids, Jez Litten, Mikey Lewis and others, they are going to be the next set of Hull KR legends. 

“For example, what you see with Penrith Panthers is a club that is producing plenty of talent from their own ranks, that is the same process Hull KR are going through. It will all be worth it, and no one will be happier than me when I see my mates succeeding and challenging for honours.

“Please be patient and as fans I ask you to stick by the team. That’s what you’re incredible for, sticking by the team regardless.??