Leeds Rhinos prop Keith Galloway leaves Super League champions

Leeds Rhinos prop Keith Galloway has left the Super League champions after deciding to retire from the professional game with immediate effect.

The former Australia international made 43 appearances for the Rhinos over two seasons, scoring two tries, but is currently recovering from a second ruptured Achilles tendon injury.

It would seem Galloway has wasted little time in finding further employment with Australian side Oakdale Workers announcing they had signed the 32-year-old.

"It has been a tough decision but I know it is the right one for me and my family," said Galloway, who stayed on in Australia following the Rhinos' recent trip to Melbourne for the World Club Challenge.

"Despite my two major injuries at the Rhinos, I have loved being part of this fantastic club.

"I would like to finish my time on the field on my terms, but that will not be as a full-time professional now as I look towards a career after rugby.

"I would like to thank (Leeds chief executive) Gary Hetherington and (head coach) Brian McDermott for giving me the chance to play for Leeds Rhinos and all our backroom staff and players who have supported me throughout my time at the club.

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"I will be backing the boys from here in Australia and will always remain a Rhino."

Galloway, who won five caps with the Kangaroos, joined Leeds from Wests Tigers in 2016 but made just 43 appearances in two seasons which were both cut short by the same injury.

Injury also denied him the chance to play for Scotland, for whom he qualifies through his father.

Oakdale Workers, based in New South Wales, showed off their new acquisition on Facebook and said: "Time to announce one of the biggest signings in the club's history.

"We are proud to announce the signing of former NRL player Keith Galloway. The club are thrilled to welcome you on board."

Leeds coach Brian McDermott added: "Keith was able to come and speak to the boys himself whilst we were in Melbourne and it was important for him to do that.

"He has been a fantastic member of our squad over the last three years. Obviously having suffered two big injuries, you can talk about how he has dealt with adversity and been a lesson for all our squad in that sense but more than that, his quality on the field should not be underestimated.

"We are sad to see him go but he leaves with our best wishes for the future with his young family back home in Australia."