Zak Hardaker: No action over homophobic allegation

The Rugby Football League has said that no action will be taken against Leeds Rhinos full-back Zak Hardaker after an investigation into claims he had used homophobic language.

The RFL had been looking into an alleged incident involving the England international, 22, during a Super League defeat by St Helens last month.

Hardaker served a five-match ban for homophobic abuse earlier this season.

The Rhinos had accused the RFL of a "witch-hunt" over the investigation.

The RFL said in a statement:, external "The RFL can confirm that no further action will be taken following an investigation into an incident in the Super League fixture, Leeds Rhinos v St Helens played on Friday, 29 August.

"Details of the investigation were presented to the RFL Match Review Panel which concluded that there was insufficient evidence for charges to be brought."

Hardaker was named in the Super League Dream Team for the 2014 season on Monday and will now be available for his side's opening play-off match against Catalan Dragons on Saturday.