Justin Sangare says he has realised a dream by signing for Leeds Rhinos as he gears up for the next chapter of his career. The France prop has joined Rohan Smith’s side from Toulouse Olympique, where he carved out an impressive reputation.
Sangare has signed a two-year contract at Headingley and revealed he has followed the club’s fortunes since childhood. The 24-year-old watched on from afar as the Rhinos’ so-called Golden Generation of homegrown stars, led by legends such as Kevin Sinfield, Danny McGuire and Rob Burrow, enjoyed serial successes.
Sangare, who featured in Sunday’s 26-4 pre-season friendly defeat at Hull Kingston Rovers, told Leeds Live: “When I was young, I followed Leeds Rhinos very closely – they were my dream club. I remember watching Rob Burrow, Kevin Sinfield and a lot of the other guys. That made me dream a lot to go and play in Super League and maybe one day pull on the Leeds Rhinos jersey.”
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Man-mountain Sangare also recalls watching Jamie Peacock, the most successful player of the Super League era with nine Grand Final winners’ rings, playing for Leeds.
“I watched a lot of Super League highlights and I remember Peacock being such a big player for Leeds Rhinos,” added Sangare. “Am I inspired by what he achieved for this great club? Of course. I also like to make big, strong carries and offloads, plus be aggressive in defence. Yes, that’s me.”
Asked which current players he took inspiration from, Sangare said: “James Fisher-Harris of Penrith Panthers is a player I particularly enjoy watching. I also like Nelson Asofa-Solomona and these types of players in the NRL. They are tall but they know how to use their body in attack and defence.”
Sangare and his partner Tina have settled well in Leeds and have their first child on the way in the next few weeks.
The Leeds forward added: “Leeds is a massive city and we are enjoying living here. Coming here is a big step for me because it’s a big club with so much history and a huge fanbase. I enjoyed myself at Toulouse and now I’m trying to become better every day. This is a huge opportunity for me and one I’m determined to take.”
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