Gun for hire Richie Fa'aoso linked with four clubs in 15 days

FOUR clubs in 15 days - meet the modern-day rugby league player.

Richie fa'aoso

FOUR clubs in 15 days - welcome to the modern-day rugby league player.

Forward Richie Fa'aoso has linked with Newcastle, Melbourne, Cronulla and Manly since June 26.

He was with Newcastle this year before a mid-season transfer to Melbourne Storm on June 27.

Unable to crack Melbourne's top squad, Fa'aoso played his first game with Cronulla's NSW Cup side on July 7 because the Sharks and Storm have a share agreement for players.

Fa'aoso will again play for the Sharks' second-tier team on Saturday against Newcastle at Henson Park.

But just two days ago, he signed a two-year deal with Manly that starts from next season.

He has now been linked with eight clubs - Penrith, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta, Castleford, Newcastle, Melbourne, Cronulla and Manly.

In Fa'aoso's defence, several clubs pushed him out.

One-clubman Garry Jack, who played 244 games for Balmain, says the salary cap is behind the perceived lack of loyalty of the modern-day player.

"The culture has changed," the former NSW and Kangaroos fullback said. "It would never have happened in our day.

"Loyalty is a rare commodity these days. It's all about the money. Back in our day, your word was your bond.

"I understand players have to look after themselves. You can't have loyalty with a salary cap. It isn't always the player's fault.

"Rugby league is becoming more like English soccer. It's terrible.

"Fans admire loyalty. It's something else the ARL Commission has to look at."