By Dave Woods BBC Sport

Gleeson is serving a four-month ban for betting on St Helens

Disgraced St Helens star Martin Gleeson will be told there is a place for him in Great Britain's Tri-Nations squad - if he wants it badly enough.

The centre was handed a four-month ban for betting on Saints to lose.

But GB coach Brian Noble will speak to both Gleeson and team-mate Sean Long to tell them they are still in his plans.

"They have copped a lot on the chin. They have been man enough to go there, hold their hands up and take the punishment," Noble told BBC Sport.

"I think we need to offer them a little hope and a little direction."

The length of Gleeson's ban means the domestic season will be over when he is able to return to action.

I think we have a few choices at right centre, all I'm saying is that Martin Gleeson adds strength to the squad Brian Noble

Long, who was given a three-month ban, will be back to prove his fitness in the play-offs.

But Noble said: "I understand there are some Home Nations games and we might get him some football there.

"We need to be smart, we need to speak to him and say 'has he got the desire and dedication to stay healthy?' I think they will both be very positive.

"People are turning round to me and saying we don't have right centres.

"Well, I think we have a few choices at right centre, all I'm saying is that Martin Gleeson adds strength to the squad."

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