Brough back in Scots fold for European bid

SCOTTISH prospects in rugby league's Alitalia European Cup have been boosted by the return of former captain Danny Brough.

The 27-year-old former Hull, Castleford and Wakefield half-back, now playing at Huddersfield, led the Scots in the 2008 World Cup but then switched his allegiance to England.

However, he was left out of new England coach Steve McNamara's 37-strong train-on squad earlier this season and, after performing an about-turn, will next week be named in coach Steve McCormack's 25-man squad.

The move follows the decision of former Wales captain Lee Briers to come out of international retirement and make himself available for the European Cup, the winners of which will join Australia, New Zealand and England in the 2011 Four Nations Series.

Scotland meet Wales in their opening match at Old Anniesland, Glasgow, on Sunday, 10 October before facing France in Toulouse on Saturday, October 16, and Ireland in Dublin on Sunday, 24 October.

"I'm delighted that Danny is on board," said McCormack.

"He's been an integral part of the Scotland set-up since I've been involved and I know that he's very keen to represent his country in this tournament and be part of the squad as we build towards the 2013 World Cup.

"There's a big prize at stake for winning this year's Alitalia European Cup and you can bet that Scotland will be in the running for that place at rugby league's top table."