Winger Paul Sterling could be set for a sensational return to rugby league with York Wasps, just a week after announcing his retirement from the game.

The 36-year-old left Leeds Rhinos last season after taking the club to an industrial tribunal, alleging racial discrimination by Australian coach Dean Lance.

He went on to play for Wales in the World Cup but last week revealed he was bringing the curtain down on his illustrious playing career.

However, he could now turn out for York as a favour to his friend Tony Coleman, the Wasps' director of football.

Chairman John Stabler said: "They are both part of the West Indian community in Leeds which is very close.

"We are still in the preliminary stages but we are seriously interested - it is not pie in the sky. Paul has not totally written off making a re-appearance. He's 36 but has still got a lot left in the tank.

"In the case of Rob Roberts and Neil Harmon, there's a bit of pocket money in it for them but it's about putting themselves in the shop window. That doesn't apply to Paul Sterling because he doesn't need to put himself in the shop window. He would be doing a favour for a mate."

Stabler confirmed Coleman had already spoken to Sterling and they were trying to set up a further meeting at Stabler's office this week.

A prolific try-scorer, Sterling started his rugby league career with Hull FC after joining the Airlie Birds from Bradford and Bingley Rugby Union Club in 1993.

He joined Hunslet in 1996 before moving onto Leeds a year later.

Despite enjoying some good form for the Rhinos he was left out of the side by Lance at the start of last season, prompting the allegations of racial discrimination.

The industrial tribunal dismissed most of the substance of the allegation but found Lance guilty of "unconscious racial discrimination" and the club guilty of not properly investigating Sterling's allegations.

Since then his career has been in limbo while the Rhinos appeal against elements of the tribunal's decision.

Last week he told a press conference he was retiring from the game to concentrate on his new player management agency, Sterling Management.

* York Groves and Selby Warriors will meet again in the York and District Cup final on Friday, May 11, at New Earswick's White Rose Avenue ground, kick-off 6.45pm.

Groves will be out to avenge Saturday's 6-4 defeat by Selby in the Accident Cup final.

Updated: 09:42 Wednesday, April 18, 2001