Shamed Israel Folau set to return in rugby league with Tonga national team after being sacked for homophobic social media posts

ISRAEL FOLAU'S attempt to make a controversial return to rugby league has even caught the game’s chiefs by surprise.

And even if it becomes official, it is set to spark a war of words among them.

The shamed star has claimed he wants to return to the 13-a-side code and face Great Britain with Tonga.

However, despite claims that the Rugby League International Federation has "endorsed" him, SunSport understands there has been NO approach.

In fact, the statement caught the RLIF by surprise as they have had no contact about Folau whatsoever.

Even if Tonga and Folau formally lodge an application, bosses will face opposition and a call to veto his comeback attempt.

The 73-cap wing and devout Christian was axed by Australia’s rugby union for an online rant claiming "hell awaits drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolators".

The NRL will not let him join a club and cannot play in the inaugural Rugby League World Cup Nines but Super League left the door open – now the 30-year-old wants to play for Tonga.

Folau raised eyebrows as he said: “I don’t want to bring any of my personal matters into this and I am grateful that the RLIF have accepted my availability.

“What I will do now is focus on playing great rugby league and do my talking on the field.”

Folau is in the middle of a court dispute with Rugby Australia, seeking a multi-million dollar sum in lost wages following his sacking.

He was stripped of sponsorship deals with Land Rover and sportswear brand Asics.

The AFL star insisted his sacking was "unlawful" and called on supporters to help him seek £5.5million in damages after he caused outrage for launching a GoFundMe page to appeal for donations.

He played eight Tests for Australia from 2007-09 but the eligibility rules mean he can still play for a ‘Tier two’ side, which includes Tonga, who face Great Britain on October 26.