The Leigh Centurions exodus continues (From Leigh Journal)

The Leigh Centurions exodus continues

12:29pm Thursday 10th November 2011 in Centurions

THE break-up of Leigh Centurions’ trophy-winning 2011 squad continues this week on the back of the club’s financial problems.

Prop David Mills is now confirmed as the ninth member of Leigh’s Northern Rail Cup winning side to have left.

He has signed for Championship newcomers Swinton Lions, who had already snapped up centre Adam Higson for their 2012 campaign in which they will be sharing Leigh Sports Village with Centurions as their home ground.

With Steve Nash (Castleford Tigers) and Chris Hill (Warrington Wolves) gaining Super League promotions, Leigh have some work to do to assemble a front row that can be competitive next year.

First of all, though, they need a head coach and the process is ongoing.

The latest statement from Centurions, who have confirmed that agreement has been reached with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs for paying monies that are owed, reads: “The directors have been in negotiations with coaches and players for next season.

“We hope to make an announcement of the 2012 squad very shortly.

“There are a number of the current first team who have indicated a willingness to sign new contracts and some have already signed.

“Although there have been a few players who have signed for other clubs recently we wish them well at their new clubs and thank them for their support.”

Previous boss Ian Millward has moved on to Castleford, who have this week revealed that last year’s Leigh captain and full back, Stuart Donlan, has joined the Wheldon Road outfit as assistant coach.

The other high profile players no longer at Leigh are scrum half Jamie Ellis, who will also be playing in Super League for Hull FC next year; Mick Nanyn, who has signed for Halifax; and Robbie Hunter-Paul, who has retired.

Centurions bosses say the new agreement with HMRC that has been settled for Leigh by the RFL concludes the first stages of putting the club on a sound financial footing.

The statement concluded: “We would like to thank everyone who has assisted the club over the past few months.

“The club is very confident that the ongoing efforts off the park will match the team on the park.”