CASTLEFORD Tigers starlet Ash Robson has been ruled out for up to eight months - scuppering any hope of a dual-reg move to home-town club York City Knights.

The 20-year-old full-back, who has been starring throughout pre-season for the Super League club, ruptured the tendon in a kneecap in the last minute of the Tigers' friendly against Bradford on Friday.

The former York Acorn ARLC junior was being earmarked for a dual-reg switch, should the two clubs as expected renew their partnership this week.

Cas head coach Daryl Powell said: “It’s a long time out and obviously it’s really disappointing for Ash. He’s been outstanding in pre-season but unfortunately these things happen.

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

The new Super League season kicks off this weekend, with Cas travelling to Hull KR on Sunday.