Kevin Locke’s move to Scottish rugby union called off

Salford full-back Kevin Locke will not now be moving to Scottish rugby union, it has been confirmed.

The Scotland Rugby Union (SRU) had been intending to play the full-back in Scottish club union to acclimatise him to the game in time for the 15-man code’s World Cup later this year.

But an SRU spokesman has now revealed that talks between the governing body and the player have come to an end.

“‘We would like to thank the Salford Red Devils owner and chairman Marwan Koukash for his co-operation in allowing us the opportunity to speak to Kevin Locke,” the spokesman said.

“The Scottish RU has now dropped interest in Locke after failing to come to any positive decision regarding the possibility of him changing codes.

“Marwan Koukash gave us permission to speak to the player but we could not reach a further agreement to bring him to rugby union.

“This now ends our interest in the player.”

Locke is currently battling against a groin injury which has prevented him reaching full fitness this season.

Salford owner Dr Marwan Koukash now insists that the former Kiwi international must work hard and fight for a first-team place.

 ‘‘Kevin must now work hard to rediscover the form he showed playing for the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.,” he told the Manchester Evening News.

“He has to fight for a place just like every other player must do.

“Reputations count for nothing.”