Friday 23 January 2015 16:08, UK
Wakefield prop Ian Kirke is still in the dark over the reasons for his sudden departure from Leeds but insists he holds no grudges against his old club as he prepares to kick-start his career with the Wildcats.
The 34-year-old was looking forward to starting his 10th season with the Rhinos when he was told in November that his chances of playing regularly in 2015 would be limited.
It left him with little time to find a new club but Wakefield offered him a 12-month deal at Belle Vue.
"I had a conversation in the middle of last season when I was definitely staying for this year but at the end of the year that changed," Kirke said. "I'm not too sure why.
"I think it's because they're bringing on the younger players. They've got to look to the future. I've got no bitter feelings towards them, other than perhaps it wasn't ideal timing for me because most clubs were settled by the time I got to find out.
"If it had been my choice, I would have stayed there until the bitter end but they said I would have limited opportunities so it was time to move on.
"As it happens, Wakefield is good for me. I don't have to uproot myself and I know a few of the guys here.”
Wakefield are the bookmakers favourites to finish bottom but Kirke believes they can once more defy the pundits.
"The squad is looking good for this year," he said. "They've got Tim Smith back, who is a great half-back and actually pretty different to what I've played with before.
"He's pretty organised and he will help me because he tells you where you need to be on the pitch. Coming to a new team with new systems it helps me massively."
Kirke and fellow newcomer Matty Ashurst are still recovering from groin strains and will sit out Wakefield's game against Hull for Gareth Ellis's testimonial on Sunday.
