Welham wide awake after being dropped by Sandercock

Hull KR coach Craig Sandercock believes that Kris Welham has learned his lesson after being dropped.

The 27-year-old centre played for Gateshead Thunder at the weekend against York City Knights, having been cut from the line-up after the 54-6 thrashing at Castleford.

“It was a difficult decision to send Kris to play for Gateshead, but Kris knows there are a couple of parts to his game that need improving,” Sandercock told the Hull Daily Mail.

“To his credit, he has worked hard and played well for Gateshead. He’s back in consideration for the Bradford game.

“Kris took the decision really well and that’s the professional he is. He has upped the ante this week in training.”

Injuries have affected the Robins in recent weeks, with Jamie Langley joining the ever-growing list of the long-term injured at the KC Lightstream Stadium.

The backrower tore his patella, and his long-term future at the club may now be in doubt. He is currently on a one-year deal.

Sandercock has confirmed that he will not be dipping into the loan market to boost his options, however.

The coach himself has also confirmed that he is yet to sign the one-year contract extension which was offered to him in April.

Handed a target of reaching the top eight this season, the Australian is yet to find to the time to finalise any contract.

“In my industry, you work 24 hours, seven days a week. Sometimes it’s hard to speak to Neil and the board,” he said.

“We’re talking and hopefully we’ll sort something out.

“We are having some good talks and hopefully it will sort itself out soon.

“There is a lot of work to do and I’m keen to get started on it.”