struggling to select gear , VR6

[JamesS]

You could probably do it without removing the lower dash but if it's anything like a mk2 (4/5 screws) only takes 1 min then it's out the way. Clutch master usually unbolts from the inside, you will have to unclip the push rod from the pedal box but it's all straight forward when you get down there. 

[Diluxe]

well swapped the master and the slave , and made no change.

any other suggestions?

[Leon27]

As you've changed the master and slave I'd bleed the brakes first then have a go at the slave cylinder if you haven't already.
Are you using the pedal to bleed it? If so try a pressure bleeder. Slave cyls can be a pain especially when the system has been opened like yours has.

[Diluxe]

I didn't think that the brake system and the gearbox were linked other than the reservoir , just wondering the need to bleed the brakes?

Thanks