Telford Tigers’ Head Coach Tom Watkins is searching for reinforcements after forward Michal Satek became the fourth player to leave the EPL club over the last few days.

The Slovakian joins Ondrej Raszka, Phil Hill and Macaulay Heywood through the exit door after failing to agree terms on a new contract following a restructuring of the club’s finances.

Watkins said: “Michal was offered a new contract, but it wasn’t something that both parties could agree on.

“He leaves with the best wishes of everyone at the club and our thanks for his contribution so far this season.

“I’m looking to bring in a new import to replace Michal, but also some young British players as well.

“I’m proud of what this group of players has achieved, but we must look to the future, both for the team and the club as a whole.”

With the Tigers due to play Basingstoke Bison and Sheffield Steeldogs this weekend, Watkins admitted it had been a difficult period for the club.

However, with the likes of Doug Clarkson, Matty Davies and Jason Silverthorn amongst 13 players who’ve agreed new terms with the Tigers, he believes the future remains bright for the current league leaders.

“This week has required some very tough decisions, but I think that with the players who are staying, we have an extremely good team,” added Watkins.

“Of course, there are a number of players yet to agree terms and negotiations are ongoing, but I’m hopeful they’ll remain in Telford.

“We need to remember that we have two very important games coming up this weekend.”

(Image permission: Steve Brodie)