RYAN ATKINS has been given a three-month suspension from all rugby league activity by the Rugby Football League after admitting betting on one game involving former club Wakefield.

The 35-year-old former England centre, who has signed for York City Knights ahead of the 2021 campaign, was not registered with a professional club when he placed the bet on Trinity's league fixture with Wigan in September, putting him in breach of the RFL's code of conduct.

The RFL says it accepted it was a single bet made without using 'inside' information and took into account the fact that Atkins cooperated fully with its investigation, having admitted the charge promptly.

In a statement issued through the RFL, Atkins, pictured, said: "I regret placing the bet. If I could wind back the clock, I would not have done so.

"I'd like to thank the RFL for the fair decision and York City Knights for their support and standing by me during this difficult time. I look forward to meeting up with the squad early February and paying back that support."