Crusaders RL utility back Jordan Tansey has issued a public apology on behalf of the seven players who were yesterday suspended by the Engage Super League club for a breach of discipline.

Tansey and six other players - Jason Chan, Gil Dudson, Richard Moore, Peter Lupton, Jarrod Sammut and Lloyd White - were told they would not be considered for tomorrow’s home game against Hull KR after breaking the club’s code of conduct.

The Wrexham club did not disclose details of the breach but it is thought to relate to a late-night drinking session in the town.

“I would like to say on behalf of all of the players who have been suspended, how sorry we are for our behaviour,” Tansey said in a statement issued by the club.

“We realise that, as professional sportsmen, we are in a privileged position and we have a responsibility to set an example and act as role models.

“Sadly, we fell way below those standards in our actions last week. We have let down our fellow players, management and most of all the fans who support us so loyally every week.

“We realise that our behaviour was unacceptable and we fully accept the disciplinary action taken by the club.”

Tansey, 24, joined Crusaders in March, two months after being sacked by Hull FC for a third breach of club discipline in 12 months.

He added: “We have formally apologised to our team-mates and all the coaching staff and wanted to take this opportunity to do exactly the same to the Crusaders supporters.

“We will ensure that there is no repeat of this and we hope you will all come on down and support the team, just as we will be doing this weekend.”

Crusaders coach Iestyn Harris has turned to sister club South Wales Scorpions to help plug the gaps for tomorrow’s match, with the Championship 1 outfit allowing Aled James, Joe Burke and Dalton Grant to join the Super League oclub on loan.