Adrian Lam’s announcement that he has signed a contract extension to stay with the Leigh Leopards gave them a much-needed boost. Lam has chosen to stay with Leigh for an additional three years despite being linked to multiple positions in the NRL and Super League, including the Hull FC position.
Lam’s success in the position has been largely attributed to the club’s capacity to spot talent and assist in improving it. With the Leopards, players like Lachlan Lam, Edwin Ipape, Edwin Asiata, and Tom Amone have all improved their stature. But unavoidably, their impressive on-field exploits have made them associated with a move out of the Leigh Sports Village.
The Leopards are going to go through a year of change as a result of the confirmed departure of several prominent players, including Asiata. Lam will be hoping the team can persuade some of their other important players—who have contracts expiring at the end of the year—to extend their stay with Leigh, in the manner of Josh Charnley and Umyla Hanley, among others.
Lam has now provided an update on the futures of two of his NRL-linked stars during his weekly press conference.
Leigh Leopards boss gives update on NRL linked stars
Two of Leigh’s best players, Ricky Leutele and Tom Amone, have contracts that expire at the end of the current one. Lam reiterated that the club would not comment on players’ futures until the end of the season in response to a question concerning their futures with the team. He did, however, affirm that the team was prepared to handle any departures that might happen.
“That isn’t the case at this time, and if that does change in the future, the club has a policy that states that no player information will be disclosed until the end of the season.
“If those two players are the ones who play, then we’ll handle it when it occurs. Otherwise, we’ll focus on what’s ahead of us in the near future or at the end of the season.
Speaking about Amone in particular, Lam shared his thoughts on how he feels the player has matured since joining the Leopards. He disclosed that Amone has indicated a wish to play in the NRL again in the future.
Tom did not play in the NRL; instead, he was a 20-minute substitute player for us in the Championship.
“I think that developing the players is a big part of what we do so well here. We acknowledge that Tom, like many other Australian players who approach us, is determined to return to the NRL, so if he is lost at any point, it will be with great sadness.
Lam discusses Amone’s future
Amone’s contribution to Leigh’s success since leaving the NRL has been significant. Results on the pitch have improved since his injury return to the Leigh Leopards squad. In recent weeks, Amone has been connected to a return to the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Lam clarified that he would wish Amone the best of luck going forward should the move actually occur.
“Tom Amone has exceeded expectations in every way.
“Over the past two and a half years, he has developed to an amazing degree, inspiring everyone who plays or watches rugby league.” You witness not just his performance on the pitch but also his growth in terms of his social life, family life, and his leadership within the group here has been phenomenal.
He’s another of those players who has undoubtedly contributed to the success of this team. If we are unable to hold onto him, we will manage to survive. We’ll give him a pat on the back, express our gratitude, invite him to join the next one, and work on the next guy.
