Walker commits to Leeds after contract u-turn

Teenager Jack Walker has signed a new three-year deal with Leeds, having initially turned down the club’s offer less than a month ago.

Walker, 17, wanted assurances that he would play full-back, something which the Rhinos were unwilling to do, especially with 20-year-old Ashton Golding on a long-term deal.

That resulted in an extraordinary, and somewhat unprecedented, statement where Leeds revealed Walker had turned down a deal and the reasons why, including comments from chief executive Gary Hetherington.

However, the former Oulton Raiders youngsters has now committed to the club.

He said: “I know there has been a lot of speculation and I just wanted to make sure I was making the right call in committing for the next three-years.  

“I’m really happy things have been finalised and becoming a full-time player with my home town club and this group of players is a dream come true for me.”

Also committing to Leeds for the forseeable future is fellow academy player Alex Sutcliffe, who has signed a four-year deal.

Sutcliffe, 18, made his debut for the Rhinos against Wigan a fortnight ago.

Club chief Hetherington added: “Alex and Jack are very talented young players who have come through our youth system. 

“They have the potential to make their mark in the game. 

“Alex has done well for our Under 19s this season and will have benefitted from his first team debut a fortnight ago. 

“Jack has stated his commitment to the club and his desire to progress through to and into our First Team and he now has the opportunity.”