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After months of speculation, the New Zealand Warriors have announced the signing of wayward star Kieran Foran on a one-year deal.
Warriors managing director Jim Doyle announced the former Kiwi representative’s signing at the club’s annual members’ forum at Mount Smart Stadium.
“I’ve been in touch with Kieran regularly this year to offer support as he has dealt with the well-documented challenges he has been facing,” said Doyle.
“We have worked through the option of coming to Auckland carefully with him. There has been much to consider in creating an environment for Kieran to not only return to football but also to put all the support around him that he needs.
“I’m delighted that following those discussions, Kieran has now decided to join the Vodafone Warriors. The next step is to work alongside the NRL to cover off all requirements to have the contract registered.”
It’s Foran’s third club in two years, having played 2015 with the Manly Sea Eagles, before moving to the Parramatta Eels on one of the biggest deals in rugby league history, said to be worth $1.2 million per season.
However Foran’s time in blue and gold was short-lived, as personal issues saw the five-eighth take an extended break from playing duties, before formally requesting a release from his four-year deal in July.
Since then speculation has swirled around where Foran would ply his trade in 2017 – if he would at all – with the Bulldogs the early favourites to land his signature, as Foran having won a premiership with Canterbury coach Des Hasler at Manly.
“I’ve had a lot of time to think about my future over the last few months,” said Foran.
“Initially footy was the furthest thing from my mind and I needed time away from the game. More recently the desire to play again has completely returned and I’m very keen to make a big contribution next year.
“While I had other options, coming to Auckland emerged as the best decision for me. Being in a new environment was important but I’m also incredibly excited by the potential of the club and the quality roster it has. I can’t wait to be part of the team and I want to play a major role in 2017 in taking the club to the next level.
“I have so many people to thank for making this happen and for supporting me through what’s been a tough period.
“Now I want to repay them. The Vodafone Warriors have so much to offer and I’m looking forward to working with so many players I know from the Kiwis as well as ‘Mooks’ [coach Stephen Kearney].”
For his part, Kearney welcomed Foran’s arrival.
“He’s such a high-quality footballer and competitor who will add a lot to our squad,” the incoming coach said.
“Kieran and I have been in contact throughout the year and I know he has made a lot of progress with the challenges he has had. I’m extremely pleased to have him on board.”
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