Parramatta star recruit and club captain Kieran Foran has been given an indefinite leave of absence from the club over personal issues.
The full Eels’ statement read as follows:
“The Parramatta Eels have granted Kieran Foran an indefinite leave of absence to seek the best possible medical treatment regarding a personal matter.
“The club will be making no further comment and request that the media respect Kieran’s privacy at this time.”
At this stage, the speculation is that Foran could miss a number of weeks of football, after the star has missed training this week. Foran is also believed to have spent time in hospital, explaining his absence from club duties.
It will likely see him not take his place in the Kiwis side in next week’s Trans-Tasman Test match.
Daily Telegraph scooper Phil Rothfield has the mail that Foran has been struggling with personal issues around his relationship.
Rothfield also says that his teammates were unaware of how seriously Foran was being affected by his issues.
The 25-year-old, known as a composed player and leader on the field, has shown no sign of personal struggles on the paddack as he’s lifted the Eels to fifth place on the NRL Ladder, with five wins from eight games.
Without him, the Eels have looked a different side.
His switch of club and position (to halfback) has been nothing but a success on the field, but off it seems like a different story.
The response from fans of the club and the game has been immediate.
Prayers and thoughts with Kieran Foran!! Hope he's okay
— Ben Appley (@BenAppley) April 28, 2016
Horrible news about Kieran Foran. Huge impact for the Kiwis and Parramatta but most importantly the key is that he remains well!
— Anthony Morgan (@anthfieg1) April 28, 2016
To Kieran Foran, look after yourself Champ. Get well soon. The Rugby League Community are behind you 100%.
— Scott Heron (@heron13_scott) April 28, 2016
The Roar wishes Kieran the best during what is a difficult time.