YORK City Knights have emerged as favourites to sign the highly-rated Thorman brothers from Gateshead Thunder.

The duo, Neil and Paul, who can play at half-back, hooker or loose-forward, have been the star attractions at the Thunderdome in recent seasons, but are now set to leave Tyneside.

And, while Workington, among other clubs were on their tail, York appears to be their likely destination after they attended the Knights' first training session of pre-season last night.

The revolving door at Huntington Stadium has, however, seen top try-scorer Craig Farrell join Doncaster Dragons - describing his decision to leave York as heartbreaking.

The young three-quarter, who notched seven tries in ten games since joining from Hull KR midway through the National League Two campaign, has nevertheless wished York well for the 2005 season.

The Press understands Farrell held talks with York and Hull KR as well as Doncaster, but that the Dragons offered more money. However, he said it wasn't just about the cash.

"There were several reasons," he explained. "I'm looking to be playing back in the centre and 'Singe' (Doncaster coach St John Ellis) said he wanted me to play there. And playing back in NL1 was a big incentive."

Scarborough-based Farrell, who still has two years left of his course at York St John College, added: "I had to do what was best for myself - especially being a student, I needed to look after myself financially.

"It was a heartbreaking decision to leave. I loved it at the Knights and I was looking forward to playing with my mate (new signing) Lee Paterson. But that's the way it goes.

"I would love them to do well and get promoted. It's a fantastic club and the people there are amazing.

"Roger Dixon (chairman) is fantastic, the players who have signed on are good players and great lads, and with Steve Ferres (chief executive) there, the club is going to go a long way."

Farrell's decision to join Doncaster may influence fellow York St John College student Chris Langley, the Knights' top try-scorer last season, who has also held talks with the Dragons.

Farrell's departure also means York are likely to be without all of their wingers from last season.

Alex Godfrey is in the midst of his two-year ban, Austin Buchanan appears set to join Hull, Rob Kama has returned to rugby union and Scott Walker has joined Hunslet. Mark Stewart, who also played as a winger, has long since returned to Australia.

There is yet no news on whether full-back Chris Smith, who can also play on the flank, will re-sign.

The Knights 2005 squad had their first training session under new head coach Mick Cook last night. It mainly comprised speed, power and endurance tests under conditioner Colin Sanctuary.

Their session on Thursday is set to be at Huntington School, while on Sunday the players will go to Leeds Rhinos' centre at Kirkstall for strength and skills sessions.

Updated: 10:45 Wednesday, November 10, 2004