Hock’s holding on for Kear life

GARETH HOCK has revealed he has held talks with Bradford coach John Kear about a move to Odsal next season.

The controversial ace left Championship side Featherstone last week as part of cost cuts at the club and will not play again this season.

Hock (inset) said: “I was one of their highest-paid players and got told I would have to take a drop in wages next season.

“I left immediately, but did so on good terms and I’m looking for a new club for next year now.

“I’ve already spoken with

John Kear, so we will see what happens if the

Bulls get promoted to the Championship.

“I’ve known John for years and he coached me for England A when I was a kid and he was at Wigan as well.

“I don’t want to retire but if the deal isn’t right then I’ll have to because I have a family to look after.”

Hock served a two-year ban after testing positive ®Êby ROSS HEPPENSTALL for cocaine in 2009 but rebuilt his career at Wigan and forced his way back into the England team. Zak Hardaker is hoping to take the same path next season when he joins the Warriors after a similar ban for cocaine use. Hock added: “Probably the highlight of my career was coming back from that two-year ban and getting back in the England team. “I think Zak can achieve what I did. I’ve spoken to him by text these past few months and told him to keep his head up and he’ll come back stronger. “He replied saying, ‘Nice one, cheers Gaz’ and he’ll do well at Wigan. “They’ll look after him and I’m sure he’ll get back to his best and return to the England side.”

RED STAR BELGRADE have submitted a formal bid to enter the Challenge Cup next season.

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