Rhinos props on their way as Burgess sets sights on Australia

Leeds Rhinos prop Luke Burgess looks set to make it a family affair by joining brothers Sam and George in Australia’s NRL.

The Rhinos gave permission for the 24-year Academy product to talk to other English clubs about a loan move for the remainder of the season after falling down the pecking order at Headingley Carngie.

He will then head Down Under this winter to play in the NRL, where his younger brothers already play for South Sydney.

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Burgess has made 93 appearances for Leeds since making his debut in 2008 but with the return to fitness of Jamie Peacock, has found first-team chances have dried up and has missed the last four games. Leeds want a short-term loan deal for the remainder of the campaign, with a recall clause in case injuries strike.

Following Burgess out of the exit door at Headingley is fellow prop Ben Cross, after the 32-year-old Australian failed to make an impact after joining from Newcastle Knights earlier this season. His last appearance was in the win at Castleford in April.

The Rhinos, who tonight travel to Crusaders in Super League, issued a statement saying they had agreed to requests from both 2009 Grand Final winner Burgess and veteran Cross to talk to other clubs.

“Both Luke and Ben have asked the club to be released from the remainder of their contract,” said Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington.

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“Luke is out of contract at the end of the season and he has indicated that his intention is to move to Australia and play in the NRL.

“Both have become frustrated that they have been unable to force their way into the side given the outstanding form of other players in their position and feel the need to move to pastures new to gain first-team rugby.

“Luke will be available on loan for the remainder of the season subject to us being able to recall him should injuries to the squad occur, similar to the arrangements we already have in place for Kyle Amor at Wakefield and Luke Ambler at Harlequins.

“We have agreed with Ben’s manager that he can talk to other clubs regarding his availability and if he is able to find a club we will agree to his release. If he is unable to conclude a deal with another club, Ben is happy to remain at the Rhinos and fight for his place,” added Hetherington.

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With Peacock – back from a long-term knee injury – and Kylie Leuluai, Ryan Bailey and Weller Hauraki fit, the two props have struggled to break into head coach Brian McDermott’s plans.

McDermott said while the departures meant his squad options had taken a major hit, he did not want to keep players who did not want to play for the Rhinos.

“It is always disappointing to lose players, but that is the nature of professional sport,” he said.

“It is unfortunate for Ben that he finds himself behind four props who are playing very well and with Jamie Peacock returning from his serious injury sooner and in better shape than we hoped for at the end of last season, his chances are limited. A player of his standing in the game, clearly needs game time. Ben has been the ultimate professional.”