Brierley suspended by Leigh

It was claimed on Sky television on Thursday that the 23-year-old half-back had given the Championship club a month’s notice to terminate his contract, activating a release clause triggered by the recent departure of head coach Paul Rowley.

Leigh owner Derek Beaumont has maintained that the clause is unenforceable but the club confirmed that the player informed the directors last Monday of his resignation and on Friday they announced the player’s suspension with immediate effect.

A statement said: “Given the serious number of recent breaches of confidential information surrounding Ryan Brierley, the club has taken the decision to suspend him with immediate effect in order that we can fully investigate how these matters came into the public domain.

“During this time Ryan Brierley will not attend the club and will not be available for selection.”

The club say they are exploring legal avenues to protect their interests and, if necessary, will take action against the player.

Brierley, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has been linked with moves to Bradford, Leeds and Huddersfield.

Only last Sunday he scored two tries in Leigh’s 32-32 draw at Bradford to take his total to 133 in just 125 appearances, lifting him into the club’s top five all-time tryscorers.