Jon Wilkin Criticizes Leeds Rhinos for Prolonged Struggles
Sky Sports pundit Jon Wilkin has delivered a blunt assessment of Leeds Rhinos, claiming the club has been “useless for six years.”
The Rhinos have endured a difficult period, failing to qualify for the Super League play-offs in the past two seasons. This led to the midseason dismissal of former head coach Rohan Smith in 2024. His replacement, ex-Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur, initially took over on an interim basis before being named full-time head coach for 2025.
Wilkin didn’t hold back during his live broadcast on Sky Sports, suggesting Leeds’ on-field performance has been unacceptable given the club’s substantial resources.
“They’ve been useless for six years,” Wilkin said. “They’ve got resources coming out of their ears.
“They’re exceptional off the field, but they’ve just not been good enough, and they know that.
“When we visit grounds, the one group of fans who actually agree with our criticism is the Leeds supporters—they know how poor they’ve been.”
With Arthur now leading the charge and director of rugby Ian Blease also under scrutiny, Wilkin emphasized that immediate improvement is necessary for a club of Leeds’ stature.
Wilkin: Leeds Rhinos Must Deliver as Brad Arthur Targets Fitness and Discipline
Sky Sports pundit Jon Wilkin believes Leeds Rhinos must hit the ground running in 2025, with head coach Brad Arthur emphasizing fitness and discipline as key pillars of his approach.
“Brad Arthur has said he is going to change the mentality to be rock-hard fit,” Wilkin explained. “That’s what they’ve been focusing on, but they’ve been getting hammered during the process.
“I would expect to see a fit and disciplined Leeds side. They are under pressure from minute one.”
Arthur’s philosophy will be put to the test immediately as Leeds open their Super League campaign with a home clash against newly-promoted Wakefield Trinity. With the Rhinos looking to shake off years of underachievement, this match represents a critical first step in proving they can live up to their potential.
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