Wigan Warriors part with troubled Martin Gleeson

Gleeson has been capped 20 times by Great Britain

Wigan Warriors have confirmed that Great Britain centre Martin Gleeson has left the club with immediate effect.

A club statement gave as reasons for his departure injuries, a disciplinary problem and an unspecified "serious distraction in his personal life".

It also said the incidents had "made it impossible for him to focus properly on his career to the extent required by both club and player".

Gleeson, 30, signed for the Warriors from Warrington in April 2009.

The Wigan-born England international made 54 appearances for the Cherry and Whites, scoring 21 tries including two in last year's Grand Final win over St Helens.

"I am very proud to have represented my home-town club and am most grateful to the club management and, in particular, [Wigan owner] Ian Lenagan for the support given to me over this difficult period," said Gleeson.

The statement also added the player will take a break from rugby league "to refocus before deciding on his future career direction".

Wigan had refused to comment on whether Gleeson had been sacked following Wigan's 32-16 win over Salford City Reds on 4 March.

Gleeson, who has been capped 20 times by Great Britain, has had a colourful career in the sport.

In 2004, while with St Helens, he was given a four-month ban for his part in a rugby league betting scandal which also involved then team-mate Sean Long.

And last season he was dropped by Wigan for a game against Huddersfield for disciplinary reasons.