In a surprising turn of events, England rugby legend Mike Brown hinted at his departure from Leicester Tigers in a recent social media post, despite earlier reports indicating that he had inked a contract extension with the club.
The seasoned full-back, now a free agent, concluded his existing contract with a remarkable try-scoring performance in Tigers’ New Year’s Eve triumph over Bath.
As the final whistle blew, the 38-year-old received an emotional farewell from the packed Welford Road crowd, speculating that it might be his last appearance in a Leicester shirt.
Nevertheless, subsequent reports quickly emerged, suggesting that the Tigers took swift action to dispel these concerns. Allegedly, the club presented Brown with a new contract offer, aiming to secure the 72-cap veteran’s presence beyond the current season.
However, Brown tonight posted what is being understood to be goodbye message, writing: “Loved every minute of it! Thank you #TigersFamily 💚”
Reacting to the post, one fan wrote: “I hope there’s a big pay packet awaiting in France if they are mad enough to let you go, have looked the class act all season.”
A second commented: “If that’s ‘goodbye’ – so very sorry to see you go. You’ve been bloody marvellous – a consumate professional and an absolute favourite. Thanks, Mike.”
Another added: “nreal player! Can step into any prem team without question!! Cant believe how easily teams have let him go over the past years. I really hope he gets snapped up by a toulon or some other big French club and earns some big money, no one deserves it more.”
“Hope you’re going to France to have a big pay day. You deserve it. Even though I’m a Wasps fan(RIP) I’ve always been a fan of yours and have been happy to see you still do a great job at Leicester. Good luck in the future,” wrote a fourth.
Staying around:
However, the above turned out to be Brown and the club teasing the fans. The fullback has instead re-signed with Tigers beyond the 2023/24 season.
Speaking about the new deal, Brown said: “Firstly, I just want to thank the club for being so welcoming during my time so far and seeing the value I can bring to the team and our environment here at Leicester Tigers.”
“The Tigers community, our supporters have been brilliant with me from day one and I hope they can see what it means to me to wear the shirt and represent them.
“I still feel I have a lot to offer on the field so to be able to continue at a club where I’m surrounded by world-class players and great people is a privilege and I’ll keep contributing in any way I can.”
Leicester Tigers Head Coach Dan McKellar added: “I’ve been beyond impressed with Mike since joining the club.”
“If I reflect on our season so far, whether he’s been at fullback, doing a job on the wing or off the bench, Mike’s been one of our best performers week-in and week-out.
“A lot will be made about his age but when you see Mike’s preparation, his diligence in how he takes care of his body, you see why he’s still doing what he’s doing, and he’ll continue to be an important player for us.”
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