Justin Marshall gains early release from Leeds

April 19, 2006

Marshall gains early release from Leeds

Via New Zealand Herald

19.04.06 1.00pm

Justin Marshall has severed his career with English rugby Leeds after one season despite having a year remaining on his contract.

Radio Sport reported today that the former All Blacks halfback has managed to gain an early release after Leeds were relegated from the premiership over the weekend.

Radio Sport said the club was expected to make an announcement tomorrow.

This week Marshall, 32, publicly stated he did not want to play in the National League One, and said he had played his "heart and guts out this season" and it would be an act of good faith if the club released him.

The report follows Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington confirming yesterday that Marshall had no escape clause in his deal after he joined them last year.

"Justin will be playing for Leeds in National League One next season," Hetherington said.

French side Bourgouin has reportedly made overtures towards Marshall, while the 81-test All Black has also been linked with English side Harlequins.

Robbie Deans, Marshall's former coach at the Crusaders, said if the combative No 9 wanted to return to New Zealand, he should be warmly welcomed by the New Zealand Rugby Union.

"He's a class act isn't he? I would think New Zealand rugby would be delighted to have him back on the roster," Deans told The Press newspaper.

Deans said the Crusaders "would look at that at the time," when asked if they would be willing to have Marshall back.

- NZPA

Earlier report here...