Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Gary Hetherington has confirmed that new Head Coach Dave Furner is still very much on course to lead the Rhinos for 2019 despite speculation in the Australian media.

Furner will join the Rhinos on a three year contract and is expected to arrive in the UK in the next fortnight ahead of the first team squad returning to pre-seas0n training.

Hetherington commented, “We are looking forward to Dave arriving at the club and plans are well advanced for next season. Dave met with Konrad Hurrell last week to finalise his move to the Rhinos and has been in a constant conversation with myself and Kevin Sinfield regarding other potential targets for next season. He has also been speaking to our conditioning staff about his plans for pre-season.

“We know how highly Dave was thought of at South Sydney Rabbitohs, his achievements there were a key reason why we spoke to him about becoming the Rhinos Head Coach. He is someone who knows our club, the potential here at the Rhinos and he is excited about what we can achieve together,” added Hetherington.