Castleford youngster Ash Robson ruled out for eight months

Castleford's Ash Robson will be sidelined for up to eight months after rupturing a kneecap in a pre-season friendly.

The promising full-back or winger, who made two Super League appearances in 2015, sustained the injury in the last minute of Friday night's 26-8 defeat by Bradford Bulls at Odsal.

Tigers coach Daryl Powell said: "Ash has had a rupture of his patella tendon which is obviously a really disappointing injury for him. He's had the injury repaired now but the timescale for his return is up to eight months.

"It's a long time out and obviously it's really disappointing for Ash, who has been outstanding in pre-season, but unfortunately these things happen.

"His spirits seem to be okay at the moment and we'll look forward now to giving him as much support as we can and getting him back training and then hopefully back on to the field as soon as possible."

Robson, 20 has featured in all three of Castleford's recent pre-season friendlies.

"It is obviously disappointing for me, having enjoyed pre-season and more importantly the warm-up games," he said. "I'll be working to ensure I come back strong from this injury."