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Rugby Union

Leeds release injury victim Bryan

01/08/2007

Leeds Carnegie have released back-row forward Richard Bryan so that he can focus on his rehabilitation after knee reconstruction surgery.

The 30-year-old also intends to take the 2007/08 Guinness Premiership season off to concentrate on interests outside the game although he said he would be looking to return to play rugby union at some point in the future.

Bryan said: "I really appreciate the support I have had from the management and players at the club since I suffered my injury and I would like to wish everyone the best of luck for the forthcoming season. I am sure they will achieve the aims they are going for.

"Unfortunately, the Leeds supporters did not get to see the best of me and I have had a difficult last two and a half years with injury.

"I am going to take some time out now to rehab my knee back home in Bristol and pursue other interests away from the game before looking to come back to playing in the future."

Bryan injured his knee playing for Leeds' development XV in April.

He made 12 appearances for the Yorkshire outfit in their championship-winning campaign after joining from Welsh side Newport Gwent Dragons last summer.

And Leeds director of rugby Stuart Lancaster backed the player to return in the future – saying he has "the mental strength and determination" to do so.

"We are obviously disappointed to lose Richard from the squad for next season," he said.

"During his time at the club, he has gained the respect of the players and coaching staff alike. He has worked hard to come back from injury at the start of the season and put himself back in the frame in a very competitive position for us; our back row.

"I am sure… this will only be a temporary set back for him and everyone at the club wishes him well for the future."

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