Keighley halfback steps back after diagnosis

Keighley Cougars halfback Jordan Aitchison has been forced to step back from the sport.

This comes after the discovery of a heart condition during a routine screening.

The club confirmed he will have to have an operation to correct it. The player and the club are currently awaiting confirmation on a date.

Following the death of Cougars player Danny Jones in 2015, routine heart screenings have been made mandatory for clubs.

Head Coach Rhys Lovegrove told a club statement: “This is an extremely difficult period for Jordan and one that as his Head Coach I will fully back him throughout.

“Jordan showed last season the ability he possesses with Man of the Match performances against Oldham and London, and I have no doubt that he will be back at his best once again following the completion of his treatment.

“I’d like to place on record my own personal thanks to Richard (the Doc) for discovering this condition and allow Aitch to receive the appropriate treatment that will allow him to continue his blossoming Rugby League career.”