Leeds takeover by Russell Crowe: Hollywood actor rules himself out of leading takeover

Gladiator star appears to have seriously considered the possibility

Actor and South Sydney Rabbitohs co-owner Russell Crowe (Getty Images)

Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe has ruled himself out of an incredible takeover at Championship side Leeds.

The Gladiator actor, who ploughed his own money into Australian rugby league club the South Sydney Rabbitohs back in 2006, caused a stir earlier this year when, in response to a Twitter question, he asked the club's fans if he should buy the West Yorkshire outfit.

However, a series of posts on his Twitter time-line appear to suggest that whilst he seriously considered the possibility, he has decided against it.

The 51-year-old, a self-confessed Leeds fan with 1.8million followers, tweeted: "#1 LUFC These are my discoveries, my musings and my personal truth.

"#2 I stand by my belief that LUFC is a massive opportunity. When my trusted associates tested the idea... We found multiple potential...

"#3 ... I'm 51, I answered questions on a topic, a passion...I did not create the agenda... As you may well know...

"#4 in 2006 I took over the 1908 formed South Sydney Rugby League team. 9 years of hard yakka later we broke a 43 year drought and won!!

"#5 so... I know what it takes . I've been through it, I look at the Mighty Leeds opportunity and I evaluate it through the time stolen ...

"#6 from my kids. Economics tell the folks in my organisation we could smash this, but, I know the personal toll it takes, and I know ...

"#7 without my actual hands on the wheel in Leeds I can't guarantee investors a return. I've loved Leeds all my life. I will always.

"#8 I will not though steal anymore time from my children. It's that simple.

"#9 think about this...there's a hundred thousand who will march on together at least, stand up Leeds ... Stand and be counted. #marchingontogether."

Leeds chairman Andrew Umbers has insisted that the Cellino family, who currently own the Elland Road club, have no interest in selling the club.