DISENCHANTED Alan Mason has had heart-to-heart talks with Leigh bosses.

The Kiwi star has suffered an uncertain start to his English career as the club has stuttered and stumbled.

He was bitterly disappointed to be subbed before half-time on Sunday - but he has been backed by Hilton Park bosses.

Mason was dropped to the reserves last night in an effort re-discover the sort of form that prompted Leigh to sign the stand-off from Hawkes Bay Unicorns.

"The team hasn't gone well so far and, as a consequence, Alan has found it difficult to settle," says chairman Mick Higgins.

"He has had a chat with the coaching staff, got some things off his chest and is feeling a little happier. His reputation as a class player has put him under pressure and he knows a lot is expected of him..

"But make no bones about it Alan Mason is a good player, far better than we've seen so far. I'm sure he'll come good."

Tim Street is expected to quickly shake off the bout of gastric trouble that forced his late withdrawl from the team at Hunslet and should get an automatic recall for Sunday's home clash with Prescot Panthers.

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