"THE unfortunate situation with Richard Moore seems to be getting out of hand and I would like to put the matter straight. Firstly, Richard's mum came to see me regarding Richard's circumstances at the club. She felt unhappy at the way Richard's career was going and that the apprenticeship scheme that Richard had signed on had let him down.

Unfortunately, from the club's point of view I would have to agree with her somewhat, however, I do think there were some unavoidable events which made this so. Obviously the state which the club found itself in at the beginning of the year, just emerging from being in administration and having to hurriedly form a First Team squad.

With the departing of John Cain as Head Coach who was also very much to do with the junior development of the club, together with my arrival, meant that I had to take a back seat at that time. These two things together didn't help Richard and his fellow apprentices, but we are now trying to rectify this situation.

The situation at Barrow was unfortunate, but having had so many injuries that weekend, we had to fulfil both fixtures and some players might have had to play 40 minutes in each game. Unfortunately, for some reason Richard played nearly two full games, which obviously is not on and was purely a mistake.

For these reasons Richard and his mum feel that his future would be better served elsewhere. Having talked at length with Richard's mum and auntie, regarding this situation, I felt it was in everyone's best interest that Richard could leave if he so wishes. I wouldn't want to keep anybody at the club against their will if at all possible.

Whether Leeds Rhinos have made an illegal approach or not is speculation and I have Gary Hetherington's word that they haven't so that matter is closed. The Club requires Richard to return the contractual lump sum payments in order for us to grant his freedom. The money that Cougars gave to him was in lieu of his turning professional at 17 with a commitment that it is with this Club. We feel this return of our investment is only right, as Richard has not fulfilled his obligation to the Cougars. Richard was paid a weekly wage whilst he was here for the work and effort he has put into the club and I am only sorry that I won't have an opportunity to work with Richard to try and improve the ability he already has.

I also appreciate that this situation puts Richard and his family in a very awkward position because they are all keen Cougars supporters. I hope the situation can be resolved amicably for both parties and that Richard's family can feel they are still able to come down and maintain their support for the club.

I have made this statement because I feel that the club should have a chance to put their view over in the right manner and so that people don't read incorrect reports that sometimes appear in a certain Rugby League magazine!"

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