Clayton was initially released by Cas in 2009, only to stay on for another year

York City Knights coach Dave Woods has slammed Ryan Clayton after he turned his back on the club and signed instead for Championship rivals Halifax.

Utility man Clayton was due to sign a contract at the Huntington Stadium following his end-of season release by Cas, but pulled out at the 11th hour.

Woods told BBC Radio York: "He even sent a text message saying he was on his way, but was stuck in traffic.

"The next thing I know he is signing for Halifax. It's very disappointing."

Clayton, 27, had been a transfer target for the Knights for a number of weeks. But he will instead now be lining up against them for Championship winners Halifax - and Woods is seething at the way he was let down by the player.

"You don't act like that when you are a professional sportsman," said Woods.

We'll move on, and we'll find someone that wants to be at the club. That's what we want, not players that are chasing money. Dave Woods

"The contract was sitting here on the table ready for him to sign and the local photographer was here. He knew all that.

"I've tried to ring him since but, of course, he does not answer the phone now."

The Knights, who have lost their skipper, Australia-bound Jordan Ross, are now turning their attention to other targets ahead of their first season in the Championship.

Harlequins' Ryan Esders, who plays either second row or centre, signed last week and Woods is still waiting to hear if full-back Danny Ratcliffe will sign a new contract.

"We'll move on," said Woods. "And we'll find someone that wants to be at the club.

"That's what we want, not players that are chasing money. We want players that want to play at York and be proud to do so."

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