JAMES FORD has said that York City Knights on are always on the lookout for new players as they step up their recruitment ahead of the 2020 season.

The club have been linked with Hull FC forward Danny Washbrook and Halifax half-back Ben Johnston.

The 33-year-old veteran Washbrook is entering the final year of his contract in Humberside and is said to be of interest to the Knights.

It has also been reported by the trade press that Halifax half-back Johnston was close to sealing a return to the Knights having previously played for the club between 2012 and 2013.

Although Ford wouldn’t confirm whether deals had been completed for Washbrook and Johnston, he did say that they would be assets to lots of clubs.

“I haven’t got anything to say about those two players specifically,” said head coach Ford.

“I’m sure that a number of clubs would be interested in those two players and that they would be good additions to any team.

“We’re always looking to retain our best players and that’s our main focus at the minute in terms of recruitment.

“But, we’re always looking at players that we can bring in to strengthen our squad.”

The Knights have already secured a handful of contract extensions to players for their squad in 2020.

England Students international Jason Bass was the most recent of those to pen new deals and Ford said he’s looking forward to him continue his development with the club next term.

“It’s pleasing that Jason Bass has signed with us for the 2020 season,” he said.

“He’s shown great commitment since he’s come to us. He’s a mature professional and his attitude is great.

“He’s played in a number of positions for us this year in the backs and I think that shows his team-first mentality.

“He’s still a young player and hopefully he can kick on for us next season.”

Next up for York is a trip across the Atlantic to face League Leaders Shield winners Toronto Wolfpack on Saturday at 6pm (UK time).

The match was scheduled to be broadcast on Sky Sports Mix but it will now be shown on the Sky Sports Arena channel.