Wests Tigers legend and former Leeds Rhinos forward Gareth Ellis says it’s “phenomenal” Craig Bellamy has been able to lead the Melbourne Storm to so much success since taking control of the club in 2003 likening Bellamy to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

Ellis is hoping for a Rhinos win in the World Club Challenge on Friday night but admits it will be tough against Cameron Smith and the Storm.

“I don’t think there’s any NRL side that has been around as successful for as long as they have,” Ellis told The Yorkshire Post.

“There seems to be ups and downs in the NRL but they seem to be the ones who are able to sustain success.

“There must be a reason for that and it’s probably the people involved at the club, both the players buying into the ideas of the coach, and the people around that.”

Leeds has played a number of competitive games already in 2018 while Melbourne are yet to pull on their boots.

“I think it will be a tough game but, putting my Super League hat on, I hope Leeds can get the job done.”