Corey Norman: Police investigate after Parramatta Eels found at The Star allegedly with unidentified pills

POLICE are investigating an incident involving Parramatta’s Corey Norman after he was allegedly found with several unidentified pills at The Star.

POLICE are investigating an incident involving Parramatta five-eighth Corey Norman after he was allegedly found with several unidentified pills at Sydney’s The Star casino on Friday night.

In another blow for the beleaguered Eels, the off-contract Norman allegedly produced “a small container containing several capsules,” after he and a friend were undergoing random metal detection as they entered the Pyrmont venue about 11pm.

It is understood a container holding the capsules was allegedly spotted in Norman’s hand and when casino staff asked about them, the mate claimed they were his.

Corey Norman at Parramatta Eels training / Picture: Stephen Cooper

Police were called, but it is believed Norman left after speaking with security, while the friend stayed behind to be interviewed by officers from Sydney City Local Area Command for over an hour.

A police spokesman said the capsules were sent to a laboratory for analysis, which can take several days to weeks to complete.

Last night, the club announced it was aware of the incident and was working with the NRL.

“The Parramatta Eels are aware of an incident on Friday night regarding one of its players,” the statement read.

“As per its procedures, the club has notified the NRL and is working with the player and his management to gather all relevant information.”

The 25-year-old is in contract negotiations with the Eels and it was reported last week he is close to signing a new deal.

Norman reportedly commands $500,000 a season.

His manager Paul Sutton was being tight-lipped but said: “Any information that is not in the police media report should be deemed incorrect at this stage.”

Corey Norman / Picture: Stephen Cooper

The Daily Telegraph revealed last week that salary cap dramas could force the star playmaker out of the side, with the Eels to immediately shed players after the NRL officially docked 12 competition points and fined the club $1 million for breaching the salary cap.

Last week, Eels skipper Kieran Foran publicly urged the club to retain Norman, who is believed to have been looking for more than a proposed offer of $1.8 million over three years.

“He’s a top-quality player. Someone I’d like to build a combination with over the coming years,” Foran said at the time.

“I know the club will be desperate to keep him and will do everything they can.”

The talented playmaker attended a training session yesterday and is expected to be named for the Eels, who will take on Melbourne at Pirtek Stadium tonight.

Police are continuing with their inquiries, including examining CCTV footage from the casino.