Obstacles in way of Foran getting one-year Warriors deal

The Warriors may be the ideal club to help Kieran Foran resurrect his NRL career but obstacles remain before the troubled playmaker can book a one-way flight to Auckland.

Foran is considering a move to New Zealand and a one-year deal with the Warriors to initiate his playing comeback next season.

But there are concerns around his mental and physical state and his readiness to return to the game after he was last month released from a multi-million dollar contract with Parramatta on compassionate grounds.

A shift to the Warriors would free him of most of that burden but crossing the Tasman would also see him further removed from his children.

A potential one-year deal and short-term stint in New Zealand would enable an easier transition back into football and allow him to test the water away from family.

Furthermore, any playing contract would need the approval of the NRL who are certain to require proof that Foran is making genuine attempts to address his off-field issues.

Warriors managing director Jim Doyle is held in high esteem by those in charge at the NRL and his sway would no doubt assist any attempt by the club to sign him.

And while a one-year deal is the apparent starting point, the Warriors would be hesitant to commit to Foran if they felt that he remained a potential liability who could cut and run.

However, the Sydney Daily Telegraph reports Foran is willing to join the Warriors at a cut-price rate, confident he can find top form and command top dollar on a new deal beyond 2017.

A discounted contract full of clauses around his responsibilities and obligations would certainly make the gamble more appealing.

Coach Andrew McFadden and Doyle have repeatedly spoken about the club’s need for continual and longterm improvement.

The Warriors have already invested heavily in rising halves prospects Tui Lolohea and Ata Hingano but it is questionable whether either is ready to fill the boots of departing five-eighth Thomas Leuluai.

The Foran of old is a proven leader and fierce competitor who would enhance the team’s performance and the club’s culture. It could be the best thing for both parties but executing this move would take subtlety and attention to detail from all involved.