Sheffield Eagles boss Mark Aston makes RFL claim after breaking silence on suspension

Legendary former player Aston, who has been in charge of the Eagles since 2000, was stood down together with physio Mick Heys in late July on a 'no-fault basis' until the conclusion of an operational rules tribunal.

Aston will not be present when the Eagles celebrate their 40th anniversary this evening and is facing up to his season being over after the final hearing for the tribunal was set for October 17.

Sheffield have suffered a form slump in Aston's absence, with four consecutive defeats leaving the club in danger of losing their Championship play-off place.

"I must start off by expressing how disappointed I am that the club I have loved and worked at for 37 years is currently in this situation, however despite disagreeing with the suspension I have to fully respect the process and the club at this time," said Aston in a statement issued to The Yorkshire Post.

"As a head coach for over 25 years, my team which includes on and off-field staff are always my number one priority and I would never put anyone at risk.

"I appreciate this process is taking longer than everyone would like, and it is hurting me not being around the boys, as it is clearly impacting the team. However, I only found out I was under investigation a few days before the original tribunal and was never served any notification from the RFL. At this point I was advised to get independent legal advice and I have now done this and have to trust them to deal with this matter.

"I am sure you can appreciate I cannot go into detail at this present time while the process is going on, but what I can say is the following:

- I have never intentionally gone out to disobey or ignore any formal process

- I was interviewed by an RFL Investigator without even being advised I was under investigation

- Since my suspension, my legal team have now received substantially more information that was not disclosed to the club or myself when I was suspended, which, had this been disclosed, then maybe I would not have been suspended on a no-fault basis in the first place

"I will not be able to attend the 40th dinner this evening, something I am very sad about, however as the club made the decision to suspend me, which included not attending any games/training or any contact with players or anyone connected with the club, then I would be in breach of this suspension.

"Lastly I would like to thank everyone who has reached out to me with their support and love, and just shows in the 37 years I have been at the club and helped to build, we have created a family. This is something that I will never forget."

The RFL has been approached for comment.