Braden StokesReturn of Sonny Bill?
September 25th 2008 05:01
No return for Sonny Bill
Bulldogs Todd Greenberg was direct when speaking to 2KY “Are you asking do we want him back? The answer is no.” then like any spurned lover: “We've moved on and our suggestion is he do exactly the same.” A denial is to be expected but if SBW returned would the Bulldogs refund his $750,000 contract buyout?
Unfairly judged the most hated man in Australia, at least East Coast SBW is apparently having trouble settling in France; language difficulties, injury and legal worries will have that effect. The reports that he will return to the NRL seem to be building on other reports of the “crisis” Toulon are in.
Tana Umaga’s side were beaten 25-18 by Mont-de-Marsen in the second round and he was called into a meeting with Toulon’s owner, Mourad Boudjellal. Toulon and Mont-de-Marsen were both promoted and the loss caused alarm. Form has been adequate since forcing Boujellal to say “There is no problem with Umaga” as reports John Connolly was on his way to France multiplied. Disturbingly for Umaga, Toulon picked up their second win last weekend while he was in New Zealand. Any change in coach will have an enormous impact on SBW, who was signed by Umaga, and his contract.
SBW is due back this week for Toulon after a leg injury kept him on the sidelines. SBW has not played since 3rd September and once playing and training his adaptation should become easier. Then he only has to worry about form. Criticism in southern France where rugby is on equal footing with football will be particularly heavy. Language difficulties could be a blessing in disguise.
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