Manly Sea Eagles star Dylan Walker cleared for NRL return

Dylan Walker has spoken of his relief at being found not guilty of domestic violence — and the Manly star will return to the NRL this weekend for the Sea Eagles’ clash with Cronulla.

Dylan Walker has been cleared to return to NRL action. Picture: AAP

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Manly star Dylan Walker can’t wait to kickstart his suspended career alongside the teammates who staunchly supported him through an ugly domestic violence court case.

Walker will be named in Manly’s side to play Cronulla on Sunday at Shark Park after being found not guilty of domestic violence last week.

“I am just so pleased it’s over for my family and I can now get back to playing football with my teammates,” Walker said through a club statement.

Walker was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault of his fiancee, Alex Ivkovic, in December last year.

Stood down by the NRL in March pending the court verdict, Walker has not played this season but will now return to play against the Sharks.

Dylan Walker has been cleared to return to the NRL. Picture: AAP

The Daily Telegraph has been told Walker will be named in the centres but could switch to five-eighth, depending on the fitness of Lachlan Croker.

Walker was spotted at Manly’s Narrabeen training facility on Monday.

During his suspension, and with the guidance of Manly, Walker has undertaken:

● A youth work course through TAFE with teammates for three to four hours every Tuesday to secure a Certification in Community Services;

● Ongoing counselling courses;

● Training with the club;

● Training at different venues to offer variety, including ovals and gymnasiums;

● Attended most games and continued to engage with Sea Eagles players;

● Continued to train in Sydney even when Manly played away games in Christchurch and Brisbane.

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg. Picture: AAP

“It’s great news about Dylan being cleared to play,” Manly coach Des Hasler said. “It’s very timely given the spate of injuries we have had.

“But more so is the fact that it completes his NRL suspension and clears Dylan and he’s now able to resume his playing career at Manly.”

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg confirmed Walker would be permitted back but not before the game’s governing body reviewed court documents to determine whether there were any hidden issues.

“We always said that we make no judgment on the guilt or innocence of any player stood down under this rule,” Greenberg said.

“That is a matter for the courts and, in this case, Dylan has been acquitted of the charges and is free to return to the game.”

Walker will get straight back into the action. Image: John Grainger

Manly teammates spoke openly about Walker’s return to the side.

“He has had it rough the last three or four months,” Manly centre Brad Parker said. “Some days have been better than others.

“Through all he has gone through, he has always been the same. He has never changed his personality toward the boys. He has always come in with the same smile, so credit to him given all he has been through.

“He is a talented player who has been around the game for a long time. He will bring a lot of positive energy and confidence to the younger players on the field.”

Fullback Brendan Elliot said: “It is massive. He will bring energy, on and off the field. That’s second to none.

“He lifts the boys in dark times and is always there leading from the front. Everyone has seen how skilful he is — his speed, power and strength.”

Manly hooker Manase Fainu was also excited about Walker’s comeback.

“He will bring a lot of things,” Fainu said. “He’s a senior member to us young boys, we look up to him.

“He can give us talks and leads by example on the footy field. We’ve got a few injuries so he can boost us up, give us some confidence.”

Originally published as Manly Sea Eagles star Dylan Walker cleared for NRL return