Thursday 3 September 2015 11:50, UK
Salford Red Devils have suspended Rangi Chase, pending a disciplinary hearing.
Acting head coach Ian Watson, who takes over following the departure of Iestyn Harris from the role on Wednesday, did not name Chase in his 19-man squad for the Super 8s game with Halifax on Saturday and the club has confirmed his suspension without explaining why.
"Red Devils stand-off Rangi Chase has not been considered for selection this week, as he has been suspended pending an internal disciplinary investigation by the club," read a statement on the club's official website.
"The club will not be making any further comment on this issue."
Chase has recently been linked with a move to Warrington and Catalans Dragons, despite having more than two years left to run on his contract.
The 29-year-old was Marwan Koukash's first major signing when he took control of the club two-and-a-half years ago, with Chase joining from Castleford on a four-year deal for a sum understood to be in the region of £115,000.
Gareth Hock, Kevin Locke and France scrum-half Theo Fages have already left the AJ Bell Stadium this year, while skipper Harrison Hansen and Cory Paterson are expected to leave at the end of the season.
"It was a management decision and we'd like to keep it in house," Koukash said of Chase's suspension. "A disciplinary hearing has been scheduled.
"I am very disappointed not to see him in the team but, at the end of the day, I have to accept the decision made by the rugby side. I'm comfortable with how they're handling it and whatever decision they come up with.
"They've made me aware of the pending decision but only out of courtesy."
Salford are fifth in the Super 8s Qualifiers going into this weekend's fixtures as they look to secure their Super League status but will be without former England stand-off and Super League Man of Steel Chase.
Watch Halifax v Salford on Saturday. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 5 at 2:45pm.
