YORK City Knights coach Mick Cook has reacted to rumours linking Yusuf Sozi and Austin Buchanan to Wakefield by simply stating both are under contract.

Cook also confirmed that the Knights have received no approach from the Super League club for either player.

The Evening Press understands that the Wildcats have been linked with no fewer than 19 players since they sold Great Britain star Gareth Ellis in a big-money move to Leeds Rhinos, with prop forward Sozi and winger Buchanan (pictured left) the latest on the list.

But Cook said: "We have had no approaches from Wakefield for either player.

"Both are contracted to York and that's where they should be committed. There's no substance to the rumours."

Youngsters Sozi and Buchanan are believed to have previously caught the eye of Super League scouts, and these latest rumours emerged as it became clear Wakefield were keen to bolster their front-row and wing options ahead of the new season.

However, the Wildcats yesterday brought prop Chris Feather back to Belle Vue from Leeds Rhinos on a year-long loan deal, and have recently recruited Dewsbury Rams winger John Waddle.

Updated: 10:46 Friday, February 04, 2005