League: Quick play sought on Eastwood

The Warriors want to know by the time they kick off their season against the Eels on Saturday night if Kiwis utility Greg Eastwood will be joining them.

Eastwood signed to play for Leeds in the UK Super League this season but UK authorities rejected his visa application because of issues relating to speeding offences.

His appeal against the decision is under consideration and both the Warriors and Bulldogs want him if the appeal fails.

Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said they wanted things sorted this week and would be prepared to offer a three-year contract.

"We wouldn't want to recruit someone for only part of the season so we would want to resolve something this week," Scurrah said.

"Everyone wants to clear this up sooner rather than later because Greg doesn't want his appeal to take so long that he might not play football this year, even if it is successful."

The Warriors have room in their squad through the disappearance of Sonny Fai as well as the departure of Epalahame Lauaki to Hull. Lauaki is not expected to experience problems in obtaining his visa. Five-eighth Michael Witt is also being tracked by both Melbourne and Penrith.

Eastwood met the players and coach Ivan Cleary after their pre-season trial win over the Gold Coast Titans last Saturday night.

"They have a strong team and I know a lot of the boys there," Eastwood said. "I met Ivan and he said he would be happy to have me. It's nice to know I have options if the appeal fails.

"I spoke with [Leeds coach] Brian McClennan on Thursday night and he is still keen to have me there. It's still my priority but the longer it takes the more of a worry it is.

"I will probably have to make a decision pretty quickly if the appeal doesn't work and then have to be on the next plane to wherever I decide to go."