Castleford Tigers have said they have not closed the door on further recruitment for 2016 as they confirmed three players will be released after Friday’s final game of the season.
Ashley Gibson, Michael Channing and Brandon Moore will not feature in Daryl Powell’s 2016 Tigers squad. 28-year old Gibson agreed a two year deal with the Tigers in 2013 after joining from Salford Red Devils. The former Leeds Youngster really broke through at Salford becoming a regular in the team before moving to the Jungle.
“Ash Gibson has been a consummate professional for the past two seasons, his ability to play in the centre and on the wing means he has done a great job for us as a utility back,” said Cas coach Daryl Powell. “I’d like to wish him all the best in his future career and thank him for his service as we have grown as a club over the last two years.”
Gibson said: “I just want to thank everyone at the club and the Tigers fans. I’ve really enjoyed my time here especially this year when I’ve played regularly. I would like to wish the club all the best for the future and I’m sure they will be up there in the top four competing for major trophies soon. Thanks again.”
Michael Channing initially joined the club on a loan deal at the back end of the 2013 season. He impressed enough that Daryl Powell brought him in on a permanent basis for 2014. Commenting on Channing’s departure coach Daryl Powell said: “Michael Channing has been a pleasure to have at the club. His infectious personality is great and his ability has grown across his two years at the club. I would like to wish him all the best in his future career and thank ‘Channers’ for being a part of the clubs development over the last two years.”
Moore linked up with Castleford from the Cumbrian RFL Regional Academy in the spring of 2014. He impressed immediately and it was not long before he earned a first team deal for the 2015 season. He represented England Academy in 2013 and followed in the footsteps of fellow Cumbrian, Will Maher in joining the Tigers.
“Brandon Moore has played for one season for the club at Under 19’s level but has been training with us as a full-time player. His toughness discipline and focus is second to none and I’m sure he will do a great job in the Championship next season for whichever club he chooses. It’s been great to have him at Castleford and we wish him good luck for his future.”
Tigers CEO Steve Gill has praised the three players for their professionalism: “All three players have been a credit to our club and applied themselves both on and off the field at the highest level. On behalf of everyone here at Castleford Tigers I would like to wish them all the best in the future.”
