Nev Costigan in NRL limbo

Former Hull KR forward Neville Costigan is struggling to secure a new club, after leaving the Robins.

Currently training with the Townsville Blackhawks. a new Queensland Cup outfit, while he sees if any NRL club want him.

The Brisbane Courier-Mail reports that several clubs, including Melbourne Storm, are montioring the 29-year-old PNG international’s situation.

Any club who signs him, however, would be expected to pay Aus$80,000 to Hull KR, as Rovers still hold his registration.

They are apparently unwilling to release him to an NRL club without receiving any compensation.

This may force Costigan to play in the Queensland Cup, and train for a job outside of rugby league.

One club he will not be signing for is the Brisbane Broncos, with coach Wayne Bennett ruling out any return to the club which axed Costigan in 2006 for a drink-driving offence.

“I’ve heard a few clubs are interested but Nev will not be at the Broncos,” Bennett said.

“Nev has been here before but his best years are behind him unfortunately and that’s the way it is.

“If someone else wants him, that’s their prerogative, and I wish him well.

“I had some brief chats with Nev about his future but he isn’t coming to the Broncos. That’s the bottom line.”