CHAMPIONSHIP club Featherstone have terminated the contract of head coach John Duffy after accusing him of gross misconduct.

Rovers say Duffy, who has been in charge of the club since July 2017, failed to report for the first day of pre-season training on November 12 amid speculation that he is set to fill the coaching vacancy at Leigh.

A statement said: "The club have taken legal advice in relation to issues surrounding Duffy's conduct and have today terminated his contract, as a result of his actions of gross misconduct.

"It is disappointing that the club has had to take this stance, especially after Duffy was awarded an extension to his contract through to the end of the 2020 season.

"Formal action is now being taken against Duffy for breach of contract and Leigh for inducement to breach contract."

Featherstone have placed strength and conditioner Greg Stebbings and recently-appointed reserve team coach Paul March in charge of training as they search for a replacement.

Leigh need a new coach after Keiron Purtill left to take over at Widnes.