Monarchs want assurances from Riss brothers before any new deals

Edinburgh Monarchs team manager Alex Harkess says his German duo Mark and Erik Riss need to '˜waken up' if they are to command a team place at Armadale next season.

Kevin Wolbert, left, has been dropped for next season, but Erik Riss, centre, and Mark Riss, will have talks with Monarchs

Harkess revealed the speedway brothers were dog tired a lot of the time before home meetings due to their hectic overseas commitments and it’s a situation the club will be reviewing ahead of any contract talks.

Harkess said: “While Erik and Mark were at Armadale every Friday they were absolutely shattered because they were flying in and out of the country all the time.

“It was getting too much for them and it’s a problem we need to solve. They are both in Berlin shortly and we’ll hear what they have to say then.”

Monarchs have already released their fellow countryman Kevin Wolbert because his constant travel schedule became a concern.

Said Harkess: “While Kevin was here he was fine and good to have around but flying in and out all the time was a problem.

“We couldn’t fit in all of last season’s team anyway, it was becoming impossible. So I just felt it was time for a change.”

Monarchs have yet to name any of their 2017 squad but have earmarked Australian Mitchell Davey for the No.7 reserve role but are awaiting confirmation of his starting average before inking his name on their starting roster.

And captain Sam Masters is still awaiting his visa for next season before returning home to Australia. Harkess added: “There is no problem with his visa it’s just the length of time it takes for it to come through.

“Sam is keen to return to us and also wants to double-up with a Premiership club, that’s his plan.”