Bradford release Gregg McNally

Bradford have released Gregg McNally from the final year of his contract on compassionate grounds.

The Ireland full-back’s wife, Rosey, suffers from avascular necrosis, which is a crippling bone condition that has been getting worse. McNally has focused on caring for his family during a difficult period.

Due to his change in circumstances at home, McNally hasn’t been able to return to work so far this pre-season and will now be free to look for a club closer to home.

Bulls’ coach John Kear said: “Greg hasn’t been back to training simply because he’s had difficulty making it over because of his wife’s requirements.

“They’ve got two young kids – aged five and six – and rugby comes a very poor second when things like that are going on. We totally understand and there is no ill-feeling whatsoever.

“The most important thing for Gregg and his family is to make sure his wife is as well as she can be and to look after the children.

“We think it will do him good to play rugby because of his mental health. You’ve got to attempt to get your life back as well and not just be a carer.

“If he could get a club that’s easily accessible, there shouldn’t be any problems if he has to sprint off the training ground and get home.

“Sometimes you’ve just got to support the individual and the individual’s family. The rugby business side has got to come a very distant second.

“The problems have really escalated from early December. Both Stuart [Duffy] and I have been over to see Gregg.

“We’ve been speaking frequently over the phone and obviously kept Andrew [Chalmers] up to speed.

“I think the club have been first class. They have handled everything with a great deal of respect and sympathy and empathy.”