LEIGH Centurions returned to training in line with the RFL protocols for Betfred Championship clubs.

Players were provided their new Ellgren training kit and addressed by Club Owner Derek Beaumont, Operations Manager Neil Jukes and Head Coach John Duffy, along with members of the backroom team, in a socially distanced meeting in the banqueting suite at Leigh Sports Village.

The players were outlined the Club’s culture, visions and aspirations for 2021 before engaging in their first field session.

Leigh Centurions have submitted their bid for a place in Betfred Super League 2021, but club owner Derek Beaumont stressed that, irrespective of that, nothing changes.

Beaumont said: “I can’t tell you how much it meant to see some of the lads, old and new, down at the club. It has felt like we have been away forever. It now feels real, that we will be competing this next year.

“We set out my expectations of the squad and reinforced that. We go with what we are and what we can control, which is what this started out as, which was to win our way in the Championship to Super League in 2021. The squad had all been assembled, bar the three Championship spots left, which the lads knew. Obviously, various respects within the game dictates when you would make certain announcements and I am big on that being followed which we did.

“We discussed how nothing changes for us. There is no uncertainty; we go as we are and we will not perceive the application being unsuccessful as a negative, or a failure as it didn’t exist at the time we assembled this squad. If anything comes of it, then it will be a very welcomed bonus and one we will grasp with both hands.

“We will be training under the Super League protocols set by the RFL post-Christmas in any event, so our preparation is not affected. We agreed that our goal is, both professionally and respectfully, to shine, as the pinnacle of the competition, and gain promotion in a dignified manner and everyone is totally committed to that.

“It was great to hear Jukesy (Neil Jukes) address the lads and reinforce the principles of what it takes to achieve the goal. Duffs was class as well and I am really confident, the team is in excellent hands.”

Centurions Head Coach John Duffy said: “From my point of view the meeting was excellent and really exciting. The response from the lads has been fantastic.

"Several of the new players have messaged me to say: ‘Wow! I am so excited to get going after hearing that. We haven’t ever seen or heard anything like that.”