Eagles forward Szostak to pursue career in NHS

Sheffield will be without second rower Alex Szostak for the 2014 season, as he focuses on commitments away from rugby league.

Szostak, 27, made his debut for the Eagles in 2008 and has scored 28 tries in 148 appearances, as well as playing in all three of the club’s Championship Grand Finals.

Also a Scotland international, Szostak featured at last year’s World Cup, but he has decided to expand on his other career, which currently sees him as a genetic technologist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

Speaking on his departure, Szostak said, “I have had a fantastic time over the last five years playing for Sheffield Eagles and Scotland and I’ve decided the time is now right to take a break from rugby league and focus on other commitments.

“I recently underwent surgery to correct a SLAP tear in my right shoulder, and additional muscle damage the surgeon found during the procedure.

“With the added muscle damage to my shoulder, the surgeon has advised at least four months recuperation which would leave me on the sidelines for a significant part of the season anyway.

“Once fully recovered and my career prospects away from rugby are settled, I hope to make myself available again in 2015.”