LEIGH Centurions have agreed to release Willie Tonga from the remaining few months of his contract with immediate effect.

The club's owner Derek Beaumont said: "I'd like to thank Willie for his service during his time at Leigh. Willie is a consummate professional and completely dedicated to what he does, and without question when he has taken to the field he has produced outstanding performances on every occasion.

"Ultimately, as owner of a club in its first season back in Super League, it is imperative that I do what is right for the business and for his part, Willie wants to continue in Super League next season.

Therefore, the agreement arrived and means that we can now utilise Willie's quota spot ahead of whichever competition we find ourselves in at the end of the regular season, whilst Willie can now find a new club to play for throughout the remainder of this season and 2018.

"I wish him well in his future career."

Centurions Head Coach Neil Jukes said: "I'd like to categorically reinforce everything that Derek has said about Willie.

"Willie has had a great impact in enhancing the culture at our Club with the professionalism he demonstrates around the place.

"I feel privileged to have played a small part in Willie's outstanding career and as with everyone here we sincerely wish him well in the future."

Tonga said: "I have had a very enjoyable time at Leigh and thank them for that and for arriving at this agreement which suits both parties. I would like to thank the players and the fans in particular for their continuous encouragement and support. Without a doubt they are the most loyal fans in the Super League and their passion for the club is something I will never forget. It was truly an honour and a privilege to put on the Leigh Centurions jersey and to represent the people of this great town."

Tonga, 33, joined Leigh Centurions from Catalans Dragons in December 2015. An outstanding centre, he played for Parramatta Eels, Canterbury Bulldogs and North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL and made 12 Test appearances for Australia and a further 8 appearances for Queensland in State of Origin. His career highlights include playing in the Canterbury Bulldogs side that won the 2004 Grand Final and scoring 2 tries in Australia's 44-4 Tri-Nations victory over Great Britain at Elland Road in the same year. He was named the best centre of the year in 2004 and has scored a total of 97 tries in 229 career games.