Leeds Rhinos prop explains how Brad Arthur changed his confidence with new deal sorted

Leeds Rhinos' Tom Nicholson-Watton said that head coach Brad Arthur helped repair his lack of confidence, after the 21-year-old prop signed a new deal with the club to the end of 2027.

Nicholson-Watton, who made his debut for the Rhinos in the final game of the 2022 season, made seven appearances last season - including four after Arthur’s arrival.

Speaking to the club's website after the contract was announced, he said: "Coming in last year I was lacking in confidence a bit. I feel like Brad came in, gave me an opportunity and that really gave me a confidence boost. It allowed me to sort of prove to myself that I can do it and compete in Super League. This new contract is going to give me even more time to do that and hopefully I can establish myself a little bit.

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"He gives it to me straight and that's how I probably need it. I can over-think things at times but Brad just tells me how it is and tells me what my job is what I need to do and it's pretty black and white.

"I proved myself a little bit last year that I can compete at Super League level. I'm still nowhere where I need to be or where I want to be but I'm looking forward to a tough pre-season and hopefully I'll get a few opportunities to prove myself in the pre-season and put my name forward for round one.

"I can't believe what the turnover has been like. I've come in this morning and there's been a few new faces already. It's an exciting squad for next year."

Arthur said: "Tom impressed the coaching staff with his application last season and he is someone who is very passionate about playing for his home town club. Whilst we have brought a number of players into the club during the off season, the Rhinos will also have a core of home grown talent within the squad and Tom certainly represents that."

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