Thursday 4th March 10

Castleford Tigers forward Brett Ferres will be out for up to three months after undergoing shoulder surgery.

The former Bradford Bulls and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats second rower sustained the injury in last Saturday’s 24-20 defeat by Hull Kingston Rovers and joins utility player Dean Widders (knee) and winger Richard Owen (broken leg) on the club’s long-term casualty list.

“It’s a big blow to us,” said Tigers coach Terry Matterson. “He’s an integral part of our team and it comes on the back of Dean and Richie’s injuries.

“It seems like every week we get one but that’s rugby. It’s a chance for someone to step up.

“It’s a real test of character for us. Our squad is certainly getting tested.”

Castleford hope to have Ryan Clayton back to take Ferres’ place for tomorrow’s trip to Hull FC after missing last week’s game after taking a knock to the head in training, while goalkicking three-quarter Kirk Dixon has recovered from a blood clot in his leg and will make his first appearance of the season.