Very sad to hear the news of the death of our former player Alan Rathbone at the young age of 57. I have many memories of Alan whilst at Bradford, a very very tough player with no lack of skill. What would we give for a player with his grit and ability at the moment?

We could do with someone with his commitment and toughness that's for sure. RIP Basil.

Sad to hear that.

He was a terrific player, skillful and as committed' as they come - just the sort of player any side would welcome, imo. Condolences to his family.

Sad news indeed
Along with Jimmy Thompson and Len Casey was one of the hardest men to wear a Northern shirt that I saw

Had the reputation of being a bit bonkers, but my recollection of Alan is of a real tough forward whom you would much rather have with you than against you.

57 is no age these days, very sad news.

Sad to hear that he has passed away.Straight running,never took a backward step,forward.Saw all his games for Northern and o how we could do with someone of his ilk right now.

"Concrete" was quite hard alsoicon_smile.gif

Had he been poorly?

It appears he suffered badly from arthritis due to professional rugby injuries taking their toll on his body. Some arthritis drugs do play havoc with vital organs, so it could be that.

Sad news, just saw this, first minute and he chucks in a Haigh tackle, good effort. www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/36470119

Sad news, just saw this, first minute and he chucks in a Haigh tackle, good effort. www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/36470119

A very well observed minutes silence for Alan Rathbone at today's Leigh v Fev game, as is par for the course amongst the Rugby League Family.