Castleford Tigers boss Steve Gill quick to forgive his attacker

Gill was left needing treatment following the brutal assault in Castleford town centre that occurred just hours after the club’s epic 66-10 win over Leeds Rhinos.

He is now recovering and said: “On behalf of myself and my family I would like to thank everyone for their kind messages of support with regards to an incident that happened to me last Friday morning.

“Although I’m in a fair amount of pain due to the nature of what occurred, I have been more concerned about the effect it has had on my family, and I sincerely hope it hasn’t taken the shine off the team’s vibrant start to the 2017 Super League season.

“Moving forward, although the act towards me was inexcusable, I have been able to forgive so it enables me to clear my head from the negative thoughts these type of actions create, and I can move on.

“I’d like to thank the emergency services and the general public who came to my aid on that morning, as I was laid in the street unable to move, for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Castleford, who visit Widnes Vikings on Sunday, top Super League after winning their opening three games of the campaign.

Meanwhile, the RFL match review panel has charged just one player after the last round of matches.

Leigh Centurions’ Jamie Acton must answer a Grade A dangerous contact charge and, so, if found guilty, may miss Friday’s visit from Huddersfield Giants.