Manly NRL officials have cleared star fullback Brett Stewart of any wrongdoing after it was revealed he had been arrested following an altercation with a patron at a licensed premises in Manly last month.
On the same day the club announced Brett’s brother Glenn would miss the opening six rounds of the NRL season after undergoing knee surgery, the Sea Eagles avoided a second dose of bad news on the eve of the campaign.
Brett Stewart was taken in for questioning by police after allegedly being harassed by a fellow patron at a venue on The Corso at 1:15am on January 19.
“Officers were told an altercation occurred between two men aged 21 and 27,” a police spokesperson said.
“The 27-year-old man was arrested and taken to Manly police station where he was released pending further enquiries.
“The 21-year-old man was issued an infringement notice for excluded person return to licensed premises.”
Manly released a statement claiming they were satisfied with Stewart’s actions.
“The following day Manly Police contacted Brett to advise him that the statement (provided by Stewart) had been retracted, as the footage demonstrated no wrongdoing by Brett,” the Sea Eagles statement read.
“Brett followed protocol and informed the club immediately after the incident.
“The club subsequently conducted an internal inquiry and has similarly cleared Brett of any wrongdoing.”
Glenn Stewart underwent off-season surgery on Friday after injuring his knee during training the previous day.
Despite some reports that he could be out for three months, Sea Eagles medical staff believe that the playmaking lock could return for the round-seven clash against South Sydney on April 26.
Stewart endured an injury-disrupted 2012 campaign, after breaking a bone in his hand in the opening round of the season.
His unavailability for the opening six rounds of the season is set to test Manly’s forward depth with coach Geoff Toovey already needing to find a replacement for departed back-rower Tony Williams.
Toovey said it was a blow to the team and a frustration for Stewart.
“It’s disappointing news for us but we have plenty of talent and it will provide an opportunity for someone to step up and fill his role while he’s out,” he said.
“It’s tough on Glenn after missing the early part of last season. He’ll be working very hard to get back on the field as soon as he can.”
Stewart will see a specialist for a post-operation check-up later in the week.
Mals
Guest
Change the title to this story. Using the word "arrested" is completely misleading & once again throws mud at Brett Stewart which is undeserved.
Roarsome
Guest
I detest Brett Stewart and despise Manly but give the guy a break. There's no story here, not held, no charges. Players are under huge public scrutiny undeservedly so. The game has sold out to the scum that is certain sections of the media and now they try and hold players accountable for things that have nothing to do with their public identity as a footballer, this was at a wedding ffs. -- Comment left via The Roar's iPhone app. Download it now [http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-roar/id327174726?mt=8].
Worlds biggest
Guest
Spot on Eagle, Shark Bar is a complete dive and trouble awaits the Sea Eagle players if they go there or most of the in the Corso. The Skiffies Club is a good spot and quiet.
Lou
Guest
As a member I don't care !! A non event ,, if he were joe average no one would care ,, this ones for the anti Manly brigade!! Didn't change a thing !!! MAAAAAAAANLYYYYYYYY. it's not like he was dodging bullets at the cross !! or getting into a blue at maccas over a cheese burger at 3am ha ha ha
eagleJack
Guest
Hang on probably best to change it to " was" instead of "has" been arrested. Released without charge. Another hero on the Corso trying to make a name for himself. Would hate to be a player in this day and age. Cant enjoy a drink anywhere. Not sure why you would go to the Shark Bar anyway.
B.A Sports
Guest
I'll wait for more information before referring to the many (yes probably too many) "anti Stewart" posts I have put on these boards.
planko
Roar Guru
Oh dear .... Not a bit good.