Stuart opens up on rant

RAIDERS coach Ricky Stuart has opened up to the NRL Integrity Unit over why he labelled Penrith Panthers player Jaeman Salmon a “weakgutted dog” following Saturday’s loss in Canberra.

The NRL has launched its investigation into Stuart’s post-match comments with Integrity Unit boss, Jason King, formally interviewing the coach for 25 minutes on Monday morning. King also spoke for 15 minutes with Canberra chief executive Don Furner, as

the NRL considers potential sanctions. Stuart could face a fine although there is increasing speculation he may be suspended for one to two games.

“I have spoken to Jason King from the Integrity Unit,”

Stuart said. “Confidentially, I’ve given him the reasons behind my comments. I don’t want to comment any further.”

While Stuart refused to divulge any details from the meeting with King, a source close to the NRL said Stuart’s comments were sparked by an issue involving Salmon and two of his children when Stuart was the coach of Cronulla 12 years ago.

The source described it as a “deeply, deeply personal and complicated matter”.

Stuart has three children – sons Jackson and Jed and daughter Emma – and is fiercely protective of his family.

Stuart’s outburst followed Salmon lashing out with his boot while being tackled by Raiders hooker Tom Starling on Saturday night.

King confirmed he met with Stuart but did not wish to comment. He will hand his final report to NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo sometime in the next 24 to 48 hours.

Canberra will allow the NRL to determine any punishment for Stuart, who admitted it was a mistake to condemn Salmon in a public forum.

ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys is thoroughly across the issue.

The NRL has said it will give Stuart “due process” before reaching a decision on a possible penalty.

Furner, who is close friends with Stuart and has been monitoring the under-pressure coach’s welfare since Saturday night, issued a statement on Monday.

“As a club we do not condone the comments made by Ricky in Saturday night’s press conference and we are currently in dialogue with the

NRL and co-operating with all their inquiries. We will accept their findings and any sanctions they hand down,” Furner said.

“Being a head coach is a high-pressure job and comes with intense scrutiny.

“However, as a club we acknowledge that coaches also have a responsibility to ensure they conduct themselves professionally.”

Stuart has surrounded himself with family and friends over the past two days but is said to be struggling with his comments and the fallout.