Burgess given leave to consider future

Sam Burgess has reportedly been granted leave from English club Bath to consider his future in rugby union.

The former South Sydney NRL star is due to make a decision in the coming days amid speculation of a return to rugby league and the Rabbitohs, according to the BBC.

However, Souths could face a fight for his services from the Super League.

Burgess is believed to have attracted interest from cashed up Leeds, while British radio station Talksport reported on Thursday the 26-year-old has been in talks with the English RFL.

Burgess, who left the NRL at the end of 2013 to pursue a career in rugby union, endured a disappointing World Cup campaign.

Last week the 26-year-old’s brothers Tom and George, committed to the Rabbitohs for another three seasons, propelling suggestions the 2013 Clive Churchill Medallist could return to the club.

The Rabbitohs have the first and last right of offer if Burgess wishes to return to the game in Australia, and the NRL confirmed yesterday any transfer fee paid to Bath by the club would not be counted as part of the salary cap.

Souths refused to comment on his possible recruitment when contacted.

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