The Bulls have not seen the last of George Burgess.
Although the giant prop departs tomorrow to take up a two-year deal with South Sydney, he is not planning on making it a one-way journey.
For now, Burgess may be intent on making his mark in the NRL – overwhelmingly viewed as the world’s toughest competition – but there remains the small matter of some unfinished business in Super League.
“I can definitely see myself coming back,” said the England Academy star, whose transfer to Souths – for a fee believed to be around £25,000 – included a clause giving the Bulls first option if he does decide to return to England.
“I want to come back and test myself in Super League one day after having a go over there. You never know what can happen in the future.
“The chance to go to Australia was one I couldn’t turn down. I spent three weeks over there visiting Sam at the end of last season and I loved it.
“I met up with one of the people from Souths while I was over there and they asked if I would be interested in playing for them. It was a tough decision but it’s a big opportunity.”
A key factor in the move down under was a chance to team up with brother Sam, who has emerged as a genuine NRL superstar following a blockbuster £200,000 switch to the Rabbitohs last year.
Burgess knows his elder sibling’s reputation will loom large in the aftermath of his own high-profile move.
The 18-year-old will initially feature in the Toyota Cup under-20s competition and expects to have a target on his back as hungry opponents set out to prove a point.
“There will be a lot of competition down there, especially with lads my age who will want to get one over on me just because of my name,” he said.
“I probably will have a target on my head but I’ve had that this year while playing for Bradford. I like that pressure and I think it brings out the best in me.
“I’ll be living with Sam to start off with but then I might try to get my own place. He’s done well but I’m going there to work hard and make it myself. I don’t see why I can’t do that.”
On top of the on-pitch challenges, Burgess is fully prepared to walk into the centre of a media whirlwind on arrival in Australia.
With Sam fast becoming a high-profile celebrity figure and marketable commodity, there will undoubtedly be a similar clamour for the younger brother – especially as the pair could end up playing in the same team.
“It’s the national sport over there so rugby league players are treated like the footballers are over here,” said Burgess.
“Sam’s always busy doing stuff over there. It’s mad really but it’s just something he has to do as part of the job.
“Some people enjoy it better in England where it’s quieter and you don’t receive all the attention but I think it will suit me over there.
“I’ve had a bit of advice from Sam and he told me I just need to be humble, not take too much interest in all the media attention and just do what I’m already doing. I’m looking forward to it.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel