Wednesday 15 April 2015 10:21, UK
Leigh Centurions have insisted Gareth Hock will play against his former club Salford in the Challenge Cup this weekend.
The Championship leaders look likely to break an agreement which was put in place that the former England forward would not play against his previous employers.
The Salford City Reds owner, Marwan Koukash has warned Leigh could face legal action if the 31-year-old plays against the Reds as they are still paying part of his wages.The agreement was put in place to allow Hock to be released from his contract early.
However, the Centurions insist they were unaware of the agreement when the player signed and after taking legal advice themselves, insist Hock will be available if selected by coach Paul Rowley.
A statement from Leigh reads: “Following recent media speculation surrounding Gareth Hock's availability for the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Fifth Round tie against Salford Red Devils on Saturday 18 April 2015, Leigh Centurions and Gareth have sought legal advice and on the basis of that advice consider that Gareth will be available for selection for the match.
"The club are looking forward to what promises to be an exciting cup tie for both teams.”
A spokesman for the Rugby Football League state Hock is registered to Leigh Centurions and they have no plans to get involved in the issue.
Watch Leigh Centurions v Salford Red Devils live on Sky Sports 1 on Saturday from 2.30pm
