SAINTS have questioned the assumption that suspended scrum half Sean Long should miss the final Super League game at Bradford on September 17.

Long had always been pencilled in to make his return at the game, initially scheduled for the Sunday, but the match has been brought forward two days to accommodate Sky television.

Stating they have not been officially informed, Saints' chief executive Sean McGuire said: "The judgement of Mr Justice Charlesworth says Long's three month suspension expires on September 17.

"We have initial legal opinion that there is a massive amount of precedent which we would be prepared to show that means the ban finishes at one minute past midnight on the 17th.

"If you are being released from jail on the 17th they wouldn't let you out at 10 o'clock at night.

"He has already missed 14 games, I think most people would see it as a small-minded interpretation if he is prevented from playing that night. It would be in the interests of the broadcasters and the wider game that Sean should play."

However, a RFL spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday that Long would not be allowed to play at Odsal, stating the ban will expire when September 17 expires.

Coach Ian Millward said: "I've been waiting for Sean to come back every week, it is like putting Christmas back. I know Sean will be absolutely devastated."