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Alex Johnson of the Swans (centre) copped yet another ACL tear, after nearly six years on the sidelines.Source: AAP
Swans leave door open for ‘special’ Alex Johnson return
After more injury heartbreak for Alex Johnson, the Sydney Swans aren’t pressuring their luckless defender to make an immediate call on his playing career.
According to the Herald Sun, Swans football boss Tom Harley said “It’s far too early to even contemplate that (decision).”
“I’m sure Alex has a view, and if I know Alex as well enough, he will throw himself into a rehab. But clearly we haven’t had that discussion and that will play out in the fullness in time.
Harley also said the side will investigate if Johnson is predisposed to the injury, but stated that “it’s inconclusive at this stage” whether Johnson has biomechanical issues with his knees.
New Penrith Panthers coach Cameron Ciraldo at the Panthers Rugby League Academy, Penrith.Source: News Corp Australia
Ciraldo opens up on Cleary and Gould
Ivan Cleary might replace Penrith Panthers caretaker coach Cameron Ciraldo, but that hasn’t stopped him from sending messages of support to the man he could put out of a job.
Ciraldo yesterday gave an exclusive interview to The Daily Telegraph, revealing Cleary calls him regularly to offer advice, and texted his support throughout the tumultous last week.
Ciraldo said Cleary has been the most influential figure on his fledgling coaching career, saying “he has been a mentor to me and a friend as well.”
Still somewhat shocked at his promotion to head coach, Ciraldo said he’s not thinking about coaching under Phil Gould’s shadow, saying he’s “just been getting on with business.”
Dan Hannebery could leave the Swans for the Saints, but not without some hefty trade compensation.Source: AAP
Swans demand Top 10 pick for Hannebery
The Sydney Swans will ask St Kilda for their precious first-round draft pick in exchange for the services for Dan Hannebery, according to the Herald Sun.
The Swans will offer their own first-round pick (around No. 13), but will happily nab Saint’s draft position, likely to be No. 3, 4 or 5.
Hannebery kicked a goal and racked up 26 disposals in his return against Melbourne on Saturday, his most disposals from 12 games this year.
We won’t be seeing Rebecca Maddern with this pair on the Footy Show anymore.Source: Supplied
Bec Maddern not returning to AFL Footy Show in 2018
According to the Herald Sun, Rebecca Maddern won’t be back on The Footy Show this year, as Channel 9 undergoes a major revamp to save the struggling show.
Maddern became the first woman on The Footy Show panel in 2016, but a severe decline in ratings this year — and Maddern giving birth to her first child four months ago — mean the show is set for a makeover.
Maddern was on Friday announced as one of the faces of Nine’s tennis coverage, and currently also co-hosts Australian Ninja Warrior.
Rooney's game-winning genius
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Ennis: Field can save Dragons’ season
The Dragons should bank on 20-year-old youngster Jai Field to save their season from catastrophe.
Gareth Widdop is out for an extended period with a dislocated shoulder, giving Field the chance to step into the halves and it is a move the Dragons must make, according to Fox League expert Michael Ennis.
Big blow to Penrith with Maloney sidelined indefinitely
Penrith’s top four hopes have been dealt a major blow with five-eighth James Maloney sidelined until at least the NRL finals with a knee injury.
The Panthers confirmed the Blues’ Originwinning five-eighth had suffered a grade two medial ligament tear during Saturday’s comeback win over the Titans and he will miss three to six weeks.
Smith's grubby tackle on Feki
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Footy Show apologises for offensive Dave Taylor segment
The Channel Nine Footy Show has offered an apology to former NRL player Dave Taylor for a not-so-humourous segment taking aim at his size.
The segment was meant to show a gutsy play from the forward, but instead focussed solely on his weight.
“Nine would like to apologise to former NRL player Dave Taylor for any offence caused by a segment on the Sunday Footy Show yesterday,” a spokesman for Channel Nine said.
Host Erin Molan also tweeted an apology.
Absolutely appalled by this. Unreservedly apologise on behalf of the show to Dave Taylor. The panel were expecting the vision to show a gun try or a big hit as our gutsy play. There was no malice or intent to offend but that doesn’t matter. We are sorry. https://t.co/wB4z5PggwO
