Walker was sentenced to 18 months in a young offenders' institution

The players were sent to young offenders' institutions on Tuesday for their part in a city centre brawl last year.

But they will be free to resume their careers with the Super League club once they have completed their sentences.

"The club does not think it is appropriate to take further disciplinary action against Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey," said a Leeds statement on Thursday.

We are puzzled by the severity of the sentences handed out to Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey and question if it is in the public interest for them to be locked away for so long Club statement

"They will resume their contracts upon their release."

Leeds officials also hinted that both players may appeal against the length of their sentences.

Walker, 20, was told he must serve 18 months while Bailey was given a nine-month sentence.

"Knowing these players as we do, we are puzzled by the severity of the sentences handed out to Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey and question if it is in the public interest for them to be locked away for so long," continued the club statement.

Rugby league stars jailed

"We do not believe that Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey pose a threat to society and question if they could have been punished appropriately in other ways.

"We understand that Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey are considering appeals against the length of sentence and we feel that a review would be justified.

"The Board recognises that as Chev Walker and Ryan Bailey are unable to fulfil their contracts, this will result in a considerable financial loss to each player.

"We will continue to meet with and offer support to their families at this difficult time."