Roosters boss in cap shock

THE Sydney Roosters have been sensationally dragged into Manly’s salary cap drama after the NRL issued a breach notice to their chief executive Joe Kelly.

It’s understood Roosters boss Kelly received the breach for his alleged role as Sea Eagles CEO between October, 2014, and September last year– a position he stepped down from.

Kelly is one of two club officials facing deregistration by the NRL.

News Corp Australia knows the identity of the other official but cannot name him on legal advice.

Kelly was appointed Roosters CEO in April this year. He is understood to be shattered at the prospect of being kicked out of rugby league.

News Corp also understands Manly chief operating officer Neil Bare was heavily involved in balancing the club’s salary cap.

The Kelly drama comes as Sea Eagles chief executive Lyall Gorman admitted salary cap allegations against his club were “serious”.

Manly officials and the club’s legal team were poring over myriad allegations and findings yesterday after the NRL sent the Sea Eagles a breach over alleged third- party payments dating back five years.

In another day of drama at Brookvale yesterday, News Corp can reveal:

The club’s breaches could be more than the $ 400,000 first floated;

Player managers have told of two former Manly stars they insist were owed a total of $ 450,000 in non- paid thirdparty payments.

Industry experts claim the negative investigation could cost Manly up to $ 10 million in lost advertising and revenue;,

And, major sponsor Lottoland has vowed to stand by Manly throughout the investigation.