Hull KR have released former skipper James Webster after the Australian suffered a season-ending shoulder ligament injury.
Former captain departs Craven Park
Hull KR have released former skipper James Webster after the Australian suffered a season-ending shoulder ligament injury.
Webster had six months remaining on his contract at Craven Park but has been released early.
The 28-year-old, who underwent surgery on Thursday, has played a pivotal role in Rovers' renaissance since his joined them from Parramatta in 2005.
His appearance against Leeds on April 25 was his 98th for the club and he also briefly held the role of player-coach before the arrival of Justin Morgan, guiding them to victory in the 2005 Northern Rail Cup final.
"It is extremely disappointing for both James and the club that we have to announce his departure in such unfortunate circumstances," said Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell.
"James has been a leading light in the improving fortunes of this club. He came to the club at the most challenging of times and has built up a great reputation in and around the city.
Ambassador
"Not only has he been a frontline performer on the field, he has been a fantastic ambassador for the club off it.
"I am absolutely certain that our supporters will wish to join me in thanking James for his outstanding contribution and to wish him well in the future in whatever he decides to do."
Webster's departure is expected to pave the way for the arrival of another Australian scrum-half, Michael Dobson, who enjoyed successful stints in Super League two years ago with Catalans Dragons and Wigan.
Rovers are believed to have agreed a two-and-a-half year deal with Dobson following his release from Canberra Raiders.
