Gareth Hock has left Salford after picking up a six-game suspension for reckless play

Former Wigan man Gareth Hock has left Salford

Salford owner Marwan Koukash has confirmed that back row forward Gareth Hock has left the club.

Hock was handed a six-match ban by the Rugby Football League last week for twice using his knees recklessly during a 52-6 hammering by St Helens earlier this month.

The 31-year-old former Wigan man has been sanctioned by the authorities on numerous occasions during his career and Koukash told Sky Sports News after the latest incident: "It's up to Gareth now.

"Maybe the time has come for Gareth to see what else he wants to do other than rugby league."

And the owner tweeted on Monday night: "Gareth Hock has left the club.

“I thank him for his services and wish him well and the very best for the future. Good luck mate.

"Whatever you think of Gaz as a player, he is a very nice person, and did deserve all the help he got and will get off me."

Hock posted on his own Twitter feed: “I have now left Salford.

“I would like to thank the club & Marwan for the support & help and the fans - wish them all the best.”

England international Hock was handed a two-year ban from rugby league while he was playing for Wigan after he tested positive for cocaine following a match against Salford in June 2009.

He joined Salford on a four-year deal ahead of the 2014 campaign but was handed a seven-match suspension last summer after he was found guilty of making deliberate contact with a referee.

He subsequently submitted a transfer request in September but later withdrew it and appeared in Salford's opening two games of the current season.

However, his latest ban means he will be sidelined until Easter Monday, even if he has found a new club by then.