OLI Leyland is glad to be making life ‘awkward’ for those in power.
The London star is likely to get another season in the top flight, whether it is with the Broncos or not, as Warrington are keen.
Even though the half back, who has showed the talents that have placed him on Sam Burgess’ shopping list, is adamant he has not made it yet, the Broncos can still avoid bottom spot.
If rugby league’s strategic partner IMG’s gradings are anything to go by, there is no chance London will be in Super League next year.
But Mike Eccles’ men still have a chance of throwing a huge cat among the pigeons by overhauling Hull FC – whose grade A status guarantees them a place.
And 23-year-old Kent boy Leyland believes it is testament to a side made up of local lads, plus who can be termed ‘waifs and strays’ that ‘awkward conversations’ are happening.
He said as they head to France to face Catalans: “We’re working hard to get where we need to be.
“We were unlucky in the first half of the year – if you watched us, you’d say, ‘They’re playing well for 60 minutes.’ In the other 20, though, we’ve fallen off a cliff.
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“Last year, there was a battle between Castleford and Wakefield. If it was set up the right way this time, there would be a great battle and a great finish to the year.
“We’ve been written off a lot, as individuals and as a team. Hear some and they say it’s a guaranteed two points. For us, proving them wrong would be massive.
“If we were bottom of the league with zero points, none of these questions would be asked. That’s a credit to us as a group and a club that we’re actually making it pretty awkward.”
Leyland is the latest London product to show they can thrive in Super League.
Just the latest man to prove thn Capital is a fertile ground for talent that cannot be ignored.
However, one swallow does not make a summer. Wherever he is, he feels he will have to do it again and again to truly be called a Super League player.
He added: “To be a Super League player, you have to do it for a sustained number of years. I don’t think I’m a Super League player.
“I’ve made improvements throughout the year, which on a personal level I’m happy with. I didn’t necessarily think I’d get the opportunities I’ve had this year but I’ve just tried to grasp them and run with them.
“But I definitely wouldn’t say that I feel like I’m a Super League player. There are still lots of adjustments I want to make before I can do that.”
