Mason denies reports of union switch

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Willie Mason has been named in Hull KR's squad to face Hull tomorrow, despite reports that he is ready to quit the club after just six games.

Sources in France and Australia insist that Rovers' high-profile recruit is on the point of switching codes with Toulon, and has already had talks with them.

Mason has tweeted a denial, while Rovers said yesterday: "The club are unaware of any approach for Willie Mason from French rugby union and he remains under contract and available for selection." The Robins coach, Justin Morgan, has selected him for the derby, but not Michael Dobson, who is fit again but de-registered.

Rovers had hoped Mason would have obtained a Tongan passport by now, which would have removed him from the overseas quota. They said yesterday that the situation was "close to resolution". Hull will have Martin Gleeson making his debut and Sean Long back from suspension at the KC Stadium.

Salford's assistant coach, Malcolm Alker, remains in dispute with the club after a meeting between them and his representatives. Alker has not worked since being sent home from training almost two weeks ago and has lodged a formal complaint against the club.

Ryan McGoldrick has apologised to Castleford supporters for a newspaper article in which he suggested that he had built a drinking den in his back garden. The utility back could still face disciplinary action from the club.

Rhys Evans, the 18-year-old centre who has had a run of seven appearances in Warrington's first team, has agreed a dual registration deal that will also enable him to play for Leigh.

St Helens' Kiwi Test forward, Tony Puletua, is the latest addition to the Exiles squad to play England on 10 June. The Bradford coach, Mick Potter, has dropped Paul Sykes and Kyle Briggs from his squad to face Leeds tonight.

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