HEAD coach James Ford believes York City Knights are well prepared to cover the loss of Colton Roche.

As reported by The Press, on-loan prop Roche was due to play against West Wales on Saturday only to be recalled by parent club Huddersfield Giants at late notice for their Super League Super 8s match against St Helens.

That recall ended his loan at York and, with the transfer window passed, it means he won't now play for the League One title-chasers in the business end of the season. The Knights also lost the services of dual-reg Hull KR forwards Josh Johnson and Jordan Walne prior to deadline day following their move to Leigh Centurions.

However, Ford said the Knights still have strength in depth in the middle unit, following the recruitment of Joel Edwards, Jack Ormondroyd and Josh Jordan-Roberts.

“We’re obviously disappointed to lose Colton – he’s a quality player and we think a lot of him here," he said.

“But I’m pleased he’s obviously impressed enough at Huddersfield to get a chance there and hopefully he’ll take it and show everyone what he’s capable of.

“We’ve got a lot of strength in the middle of the field – it’s where we’ve got the most quality strength in depth.

“We had the likes of Tim Spears, Ronan Dixon and Mike Kelly not involved at West Wales (on Saturday). Tim’s our captain and I’m adamant Ronan will play Super League, and Mike has played plenty of Championship rugby.

“Rory Dixon is back as well. He’s played well (on loan) at Hemel and we’ve got some really good stats from them. He will do alright here. It’s testament to how strong our forward pack is that he’s struggling to get a game.”

Roche was used as an interchange prop by Huddersfield as they shocked Super League leaders Saints 16-12.

“It was a great result for Huddersfield," added Ford, who remains in regular contact with former Knights team-mate Chris Thorman, the Giants' assistant-coach.

"Chris and Simon Woolford (head coach) are doing a great job and the transformation at Huddersfield this season has been remarkable.

“I speak to Chris a lot and he’s adamant Colts has done enough to earn his chance.”