Hull KR captain Ben Galea yesterday marked his 34th birthday by confirming he is to retire at the end of the season.

The Australian forward of Maltese descent joined the Robins from Wests Tigers in 2008 and has been a pivotal player for them ever since, making over 100 appearances.

He delayed retirement last year to sign a new deal at Craven Park and was willing to do the same again this time around, only for Rovers coach Craig Sandercock to deem his services were no longer required.

Galea’s announcement comes two days after the Rugby League club confirmed another long-serving player, Scott Murrell, would not be retained.

Malta Rugby League coach Anthony Micallef yesterday told The Times that Galea had never represented Malta before.

However, he added, now that he is calling his retirement, there is a slight chance that Galea may play for Malta “as no doubt he would probably decide to con-tinue at amateur level.”

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