Cooke set for Rovers return

10:21pm Friday 8th August 2008

Hull KR have announced controversial stand-off Paul Cooke will once again be considered for selection from this weekend.

The 27-year-old has sat out Rovers' last two Super League matches amid allegations over his off-field behaviour.

But after admitting on Friday that his conduct had been "unprofessional", Cooke could make his return in this Sunday's game against Harlequins.

The decision to bring Cooke back into the fold follows discussions between the player, head coach Justin Morgan and chairman Neil Hudgell on Friday.

"Regarding events of the past few weeks and following full and frank discussions with the club, I accept that my off-field behaviour has been unprofessional and have apologised to those concerned for that," the former England international said in a statement.

"I would also like to extend that apology to the supporters who have been tremendous since my arrival at the club.

"I firmly believe we can gain a top-six place in Super League and look forward to helping achieve that."

Morgan hinted last Friday that Cooke, who has more than two years left to run on his Rovers contract, could still have a future at Craven Park if he dealt with personal problems.

Morgan said: "The meeting was very positive and Paul particularly impressed me by showing a strong and genuine determination to make up for lost time and to get back to recapturing his best form.

"Whilst we will monitor the situation carefully, I expect Paul to play an important part for us between now and the end of the season and for the remainder of his contract."

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