TWO familiar faces are returning to help Leigh Centurions' quest for Super League.

Experienced forwards Heath Cruckshank and Simon Knox are both coming back to Hilton Park as Leigh's squad for 2004 starts to take shape.

Aussie back row or prop Cruckshank was Ian Millward's first overseas signing four years ago but had to be released when new overseas quota regulations were introduced. He has since spent time with St Helens, Huddersfield and latterly Halifax.

Cumbrian Knox didn't have the happiest of times at Leigh two seasons ago but last year was a shining light with Swinton.

Leigh's double capture has pleased executive director Derek Beaumont. He says: "Both players are vastly experienced at the highest level and we believe they can offer us a lot of impact in the middle of the field."

Rejoining Leigh from Chorley are Mark McCulley along with hooker Dave McConnell who spent part of last season on loan with London.

The Centurions are also delighted that record-breaking full-back Neil Turley has penned a new contract.

"It's great news," says Mr Beaumont. "We have never wanted to lose Neil because we want him with us this year and next in Super League."

Turley has agreed a deal that covers him for next season as well as a Super League contract should Leigh be promoted. If not, he has a one-year option to stay at Hilton Park in NL1.

Another key member of last year's squad, Alan Hadcroft, has also agreed a new contract and will stay with the Centurions. Talks are still on-going with Willie Swann and Dave Bradbury.

But the downside is that Leigh have lost second rower Sean Richardson and young half-back Lee Sanderson.

Richardson has not been retained while Sanderson is to try his luck with London Broncos. Joining Sanderson in the capital is ex-Leigh stand-off Radney Bowker.

The loss of 21-year-old Sanderson to the Super League club has prompted Leigh to ask for financial compensation.

"London have made us one offer that was derisory. We've told them to come back with something better. If we don't get satisfaction than we'll take it to a tribunal to fix a transfer fee," adds Mr Beaumont.

"We tried very hard to keep Lee with us, but he wants to try his luck with the Broncos in a full-time environment. We wish him well and hope he makes a success of the move."

Leigh will be playing St Helens in a match for Tommy Martyn's Testimonial on a date to be fixed in December.