Manly Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler today ended a week of grossly exaggerated media reports that former winger John Hopoate would return for the final month of the premiership.
"Suggestions that John Hopoate would play for Manly again are simply unfounded - the club informed the N.R.L. last Monday that it was a non issue and nothing has changed since then," Hasler said.
Hasler said he remained very much a "fan" of Hopoate's footballing ability.
"I have both played with and coached John Hopoate and there is no doubting the inspiration and passion he brings to a side but John will not be rejoining the team.
"The pain that he and his family - and the Manly club would be forced to endure - doesn't make it feasible. It would be about every other issue rather than football.
"I want to make it clear that John is always welcome at our football club and I know when he steps into the ring for his first professional fight that all his team mates will be in his corner. On behalf of the players and the club we wish him the best in his boxing career" Hasler said.
"Suggestions that John Hopoate would play for Manly again are simply unfounded - the club informed the N.R.L. last Monday that it was a non issue and nothing has changed since then," Hasler said.
Hasler said he remained very much a "fan" of Hopoate's footballing ability.
"I have both played with and coached John Hopoate and there is no doubting the inspiration and passion he brings to a side but John will not be rejoining the team.
"The pain that he and his family - and the Manly club would be forced to endure - doesn't make it feasible. It would be about every other issue rather than football.
"I want to make it clear that John is always welcome at our football club and I know when he steps into the ring for his first professional fight that all his team mates will be in his corner. On behalf of the players and the club we wish him the best in his boxing career" Hasler said.
