Ian Millward has hailed Rob Burrow as 'one of the greats of the modern game' after the diminutive Leeds hooker announced he will be hanging up his boots at the end of the current Betfred Super League season.
"I have followed his career closely after he came on the scene in 2001," Millward told sportinglife.com.
"I had just been involved in a Challenge Cup semi-final and saw him for the first time in a lift. I thought to myself, he will need to be really good at 5-5 as he looked like he rode track work at Royal Ascot!
"I have been amazed at his ability to run the ball against big bodies - players who can cause carnage and are 100kg-plus - but also how he has adapted his game and can dictate play - it is why he has enjoyed such longevity and been part of a club that has won 16 trophies in his time there."
As well as his skill and versatility, Millward also reflected on Burrow's professionalism and pleasant disposition.
"He is admired throughout the game and has to be one of the nicest and well-respected players," Millward added.
"He is such low maintenance, cares about his team-mates and still has a really positive influence on them. That has been huge in terms of the success Leeds have enjoyed.
"I definitely consider him one of the modern greats of the game as he has really stood the test of time."
Burrow is the latest big name to call time on his career at Headingley along with Kevin Sinfield, Kylie Leuluai and also Danny McGuire but Millward sees a younger crop of players carrying on the good work.
"Getting Richie Myler in was a good move as he is very confident and composed so they don't have a rookie taking over," Millward observed.
"The club are very good at developing youngsters - which Rob will be involved with now - and they are great team when it comes to making that gradual transition."
