By James Collins Rugby League FORWARD signing Joe Walsh has walked out on Sheffield Eagles – before he has played a game this season.
The former Huddersfield Giants and Harlequins RL player is believed to be seeking a switch to rugby union but the Eagles have refused to cancel his contract.
Walsh, 24, signed for the Eagles late last year but hasn't been seen at the club since December.
"He's contracted to Sheffield Eagles," said coach Mark Aston. "He can't move unless he has got someone who wants to buy his contract out.
"I haven't seen him since December. His agent spoke to me and asked if we would release him from his contract – the answer to that was negative."
Walsh spent a month at the Eagles on loan from Huddersfield Giants last year. He had shoulder surgery during the winter but was expected to be available for the start of the Championship season.
His father, Steve, was conditioner at Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors and in rugby union as performance director at Sale Sharks.
Aston is angry because after Walsh agreed to join the Eagles he didn't make an offer to other potential players.
Aston added: "Why should I release someone from his contract that I wanted here? It puts me in an awkward position because if we hadn't signed him when we did in October then I would have had another player in by now but I didn't because I saw Joe as part of this squad.
"I'm disappointed by this business. I will always try and work with players but if they start disrespecting the club then I will do what is right for Sheffield Eagles."
I fully support Tubbs stance in this, no one can treat a professional organisation in this fashion. If be wants out he should buy out his contract so we can use the money elsewhere on someone who does want to play for us.
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