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12:11 GMT, Friday, 22 August 2008 13:11 UK

Rhinos young stars get new deals

Luke Burgess

Leeds Rhinos have given new contracts to two of their rising stars, prop Luke Burgess and centre Carl Ablett.

Burgess, 21, is now signed up until 2011 after being linked with a move to Bradford Bulls where his brothers play.

"It gives me confidence that the club and coaches are pleased with my progress," said Burgess.

Ablett's deal was due to expire at the end of the current season but the 22-year-old will stay until the end of the 2009 campaign.

Ablett said: "I have been playing a lot at centre this year, which has helped develop different aspects of my game.

"I am happy to play wherever the coaching staff feel I can best help the team.

I think sometimes people think I am older than I am because I have been in the first-team squad for a number of years.

"This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news," explained McClennan."
Brian McClennan

"But I am still only 22 and I am hoping to continue to learn and develop.”

Ablett made his debut in 2004 under former coach Tony Smith, while Burgess was handed his first Rhinos start early this season by current head coach Brian McClennan.

"This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news," explained McClennan.

"Luke has had a great year to date in his first season in the top grade and his potential is enormous.

"The club's policy is to keep people like him on board and to progress talented young players through the ranks.

"Carl has shown terrific versatility this year because of injuries. He has shown that in the centres but he is still only young.

"He is younger than people realise sometimes and we know he will keep on improving and it is good to have him on board for next season."




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