Leeds Rhinos bring in England rugby union star Marcus Smith
The Leeds Rhinos will have a new face on their training ground from time to time over the next few months.
That’s because one of Sean Long’s old acquaintances – Leeds assistant coach – will honor Headingley with his presence.
Nominated for the 2021 World Player of the Year, England and Harlequins UK’s opening half Marcus Smith will learn lessons from the Rhinos in the not too distant future in an effort to improve their game and resilience.
The 22-year-old has already helped the Harlequins win the Premiership title in 2021, but for just over a year Long was Smith’s offensive coach in the capital.
Of course, the former St Helens half-back sensation was appointed as Richard Agar’s assistant in October last year, but has kept in touch with Smith since leaving.
“Marcus texted me recently and asked if he could come to Leeds Rhinos,” Long told the Yorkshire Post.
“He asked if he could come and train with us and of course I said he could. I settled it with Rich.
“Marcus just wants to come and see what it’s like with us and see what it’s like to train in the rugby league.
“It’s not that he wants to change the codes or anything; he just wants to look at the challenges of rugby league versus rugby union because he always wants to improve.
For Long and Agar as the 2022 Super League season approaches, it will be about trying to improve their place in the semi-finals in 2021.