LEIGH Centurions are set to trial Australian forward Brett Longstaffe with a bid to seeing if he is up to Co-operative National League One playing standard.

"It's a no lose situation for us," explained Centurions Coach, Neil Kelly.

"He comes with a recommendation from Dave Armistead, who we signed from Barrow, and he has paid for his own flight and accommodation over here.

"All he is seeking is a trial after being out of the game for 18 months or so through injury. However he is now fully recovered and we are prepared to let him train with our players, monitor his fitness, and then see if he is capable of trialling in the games that we have arranged for the New Year.

"In the meantime he has signed up with Leigh East and played for their second team last week, with a view to testing himself with them whilst training with us. It will be tough for him, but in that respect the opportunity is there to be taken.

"We have long identified the Prop Forward position as one for which we would appreciate much more cover.

"If he comes good it will certainly be a bonus for the club, and if he doesn't then hopefully it won't be for lack of opportunity to show his potential."

This liaison and co-operation between the town's professional club and one of its leading amateur sides is something that Neil Kelly and the Leigh Board are keen to develop.

"I know there have been ups and downs in the relationships between the professional and amateur clubs in the past," said Kelly.

"But I am determined to try and ensure we work together to ensure the best for all concerned. Brett maybe Australian, but through playing with Leigh East he will be able to ascertain how his own injury has mended as well as to hone some of his playing skills. East were keen to offer him that opportunity too, and it would benefit them and us, if Brett proved a success.

"Likewise I must compliment Leigh Miners Rangers on the way they ensured a smooth transition for the signing of Martyn Ridyard. He was a key member of their championship chasing team, but they did everything they could to ensure that Martyn's signing went without a hitch. In my experience that is not always the case with an amateur club.

"I want to see a very strong bond between the amateur clubs within the town and the Centurions, and hope the instances I have related signal the start of a new and mutually beneficial relationship for the clubs within the town." Tweet