Gallop blocks bookie payment to Minichiello

The NRL has blocked a bookmaker making direct payments to Sydney Roosters fullback Anthony Minichiello as part of a sponsorship deal, Rugby League Week reported on Wednesday.

Roosters chief executive Steve Noyce told the magazine the club wanted bookmaking firm LuxBet to employ the former Golden Boot winner as a spokesman in exchange for a $50,000 marquee player position.

But NRL chief executive David Gallop has put a stop to the move.

“After discussions at the last CEOs meeting, we’ve advised clubs that we are uncomfortable with any proposed arrangement under which individual players are paid to endorse a particular betting agency,” he told the magazine.

Minichiello is off contract at the end of the season and out for three months with an ankle injury.

Controversy has swirled around the Roosters in recent days with Willie Mason and Nate Myles dropped for drinking at home on a designated alcohol-free day for the club.

AAP dpb

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