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London Broncos criticise Andy Ackers' move to Toronto Wolfpack

Toronto Wolfpack's Andy Ackers, pictured playing for London Broncos in 2017
Image: Andy Ackers has joined Toronto following his release by London

London chairman David Hughes has criticised Andy Ackers' move to Toronto after he was released by the Broncos due to homesickness.

Ackers and Wililam Barthau were granted early release from their contracts on September 27 for family reasons.

Barthau wanted to return to France where his partner and family are based while according to London, Ackers "found living from his Wigan-based family too arduous".

However, Toronto announced on Sunday that had completed the signing of 23-year-old Ackers, which means he will spend large chunks of the season in the Canadian city.

A Broncos statement read: "London Broncos would like to reiterate that Andy Ackers was granted an early release from his contract with the club due to his request of returning home for family reasons.

"Out of sympathy, the club reluctantly agreed to grant Ackers a release from the final year of his contract given the nature of his apparent homesickness, and his desire to be nearer to his family.

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"To learn now of a deal with Toronto Wolfpack is hugely disappointing for the club. Based on the 2017 calendar, penning a deal with the Wolfpack could see Ackers away from home for up to three months while the home fixtures are fulfilled over the summer.

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"This, in turn, results in not only an increase in time spent away from home, but also at a much greater distance from his family than if he were to remain living in London."

SEPTEMBER 10, 2017: Andy Ackers of London Broncos is tackled by James Saltonstall and Elliott Morris of Halifax during the Kingstone Press C'ship.
Image: London finished second in the Championship but managed just one win in the Qualifiers

Broncos chairman Hughes added: "It is hugely disappointing for the club that we have done what we perceive to be the right and gracious thing - allowing a young homesick player to go home and live nearer to his family - to have it essentially thrown back in our faces.

"The London Broncos coaching staff have spent a great deal of time and effort in developing Ackers into one of our stronger players, and he now leaves a better player than when he arrived. His departure is a big loss to our squad.

"We will certainly not hold any player in London against his will, and can understand only too well that family comes first, but will not hide the fact that club is dissatisfied with the outcome of granting this early release."

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