SAINTS have sent their condolences to the family and friends of Rob Burrow following his passing of former Leeds Rhinos scrum half Rob Burrow at the age of 41 after a long battle with Motor Neurone Disease.

A statement issued by the club declared: "Rob was a true hero, in every sense of the word."

Burrow enjoyed an astonishing 17-year playing career which saw him win eight Super League titles, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.

His final match in 2017 saw him bow out with a Grand Final winners’ ring at Old Trafford.

Internationally too, Burrow represented England fifteen times and Great Britain on five occasions as well.

Two years after his retirement in late 2019, Rob announced to the world that he had been diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND), which sadly this is no cure for.

Chairman of St Helens R.F.C. Eamonn McManus commented: “I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone at St Helens when I express both sorrow on Rob Burrows’ passing and the deepest of sympathy for his family and friends.

“His long fight against MND showed the bravery and spirit which he showed always as a rugby league player throughout his career.

"He was the nemesis of St Helens on so many big occasions but is remembered only as one of the all time greats by all of our supporters: indeed the biggest of little men.

“He has left an indelible mark on our sport. He has also done so much to further the recognition of the terrible disease which afflicted him, and to assist the research which will save the lives of others in the future.

"He leaves an unforgettable and unmatchable legacy in so many ways.”