Former Australian boss Ken Arthurson furious over NRL’s treatment of Bob Fulton
FORMER Manly and Australian boss Ken Arthurson is furious over what he described as “disgraceful, demeaning and terrible” treatment of Sea Eagles Immortal Bob Fulton.
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FORMER Manly and Australian boss Ken Arthurson is furious over what he described as “disgraceful, demeaning and terrible” treatment of Sea Eagles Immortal Bob Fulton.
Fulton was implicated in Manly’s salary cap drama on Monday after NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said the Sea Eagles legend would not be welcomed back if he reapplied to be Kangaroos selector.
“It was demeaning to one of the greatest figures in rugby league,” Arthurson said. “I’m absolutely irate about the statement that was made about Bob Fulton — that he wouldn’t be welcomed back into the game.
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“He is a bloke who has given more than 50 years to the game as a player, coach, selector and administrator. And he was one of the first Immortals chosen.
“I don’t know anyone who has made a better or bigger contribution to the game over 50-odd years. The treatment he copped this week, I think it’s disgraceful, terrible.”
Arthurson and Fulton are lifetime mates.
“I want to register my complete dismay,” Arthurson said.
“I can’t tell you how upset I was when I heard those comments. As you know, I have almost brought the bloke up, I know him inside-out and back-to-front.
“The contribution he has made to rugby league has been absolutely outstanding. I just think a terrible wrong has been made to a man who doesn’t deserve that sort of stuff.
“All I want to do is defend ‘Bozo’ from something that is totally wrong. To say he wouldn’t be welcomed in the game, they have to be kidding.
“I can’t think of anyone who should be more welcomed in the game, to tell you the truth.”
Arthurson admitted he didn’t know any player payments at Manly.
“As you know I’ve got no idea who gets paid what at Manly and haven’t for many years,” the 88-year-old said. “I’ve been out of the game for a long time.
“I’m flat-out cracking it for a chat with anyone down there these days.”