Sharks coach John Morris speaks on Bronson Xerri’s shock drug test result
Cronulla coach John Morris has broken his silence on the drug test that threatens to put star centre Bronson Xerri on the sidelines for the next four years.
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XERRI BOMB: Young star’s career in the balance
Cronulla coach John Morris says he “felt sick in the stomach” when he was told of Bronson Xerri’s shock drug result, and he still hasn’t spoken to his under-fire star
Morris addressed Xerri’s failed drug test for the first time on Friday ahead of their return clash against the Wests Tigers.
Morris said he was “shocked and disappointed” when he was told of the news.
“It’s important we allow due process,” Morris said. “I would like to make it clear myself nor the club condone the use of performance enhancing drugs. We are firm on our belief there is no place for them in sport.
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“This has been a difficult time. I would like to clearly state this is not a reflection of what our club stands for.”
The Sharks coach was broken the news early on Tuesday afternoon after he was summoned to the club’s football officers.
Morris said he was yet to speak with Xerri.
“I can’t speculate on what he has taken or what he has been given,” Morris said. “We haven’t heard Bronson’s side of the story.
“It’s a traumatic time for him. I’ve reached out. He needs space to get his head around it. I’ve made contact with him. The club is certainly in touch with him.
Morris addressed the news with the team last Wednesday and he said they were shell-shocked.
“It’s hard telling them on Wednesday morning,” Morris said. “They found out (on Tuesday) but we couldn’t get them face-to-face. It was a sombre group Wednesday morning. I had to wonder how much quality training we were going to get done. They were so worried about Bronson. The club doesn’t condone performance enhancing drugs in sport. They see it as one of their mates doing it really tough.”
Originally published as Sharks coach John Morris speaks on Bronson Xerri’s shock drug test result
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