http://www.news.com.au/sport/sports...l/news-story/fd3162db466e36c5c03abb79693375ba
Kieran Foran walks out on Parramatta, taking indefinite break from the NRL
JULY 8, 20169:47AM
Phil \"Buzz\" Rothfield
STRUGGLING superstar Kieran Foran is walking out on his $5 million contract at the Parramatta Eels.
The pressure of dealing with personal issues has convinced the champion five-eighth to quit and take an indefinite break from the NRL.
The Daily Telegraph understands Foran told coach Brad Arthur of his decision on Thursday morning.
Kieran Foran, Parramatta Eels captain. NSW real estate.Source:Supplied
His release will have to be approved by Parramatta Eels directors, who are unlikely to stand in his way given they want former champion fullback Jarryd Hayne back at the club next year.
They would need Foran’s salary to fit Hayne under the salary cap.
Foran wants a complete break from the game to sort his private life out.
The fact he is turning his back on more than $4 million in contract earnings is an indication of his desperate recent struggles and his determination.
“The money is not important to him at this stage,” a friend said, “He just wants and needs a break.”
He recently spent time in a Brisbane rehab clinic to receive treatment for depression.
He has since undergone season-ending surgery to repair a shoulder injury.
It is unlikely Foran will be lost to rugby league forever.
He is only 25 and there will be huge interest from rival clubs for him to make a comeback next year, once he gets his personal issues sorted.
Already the Canterbury Bulldogs and the Sydney Roosters have shown interest, although their hands have been tied because of his contract at Parramatta.
Foran quit the Manly Sea Eagles at the end of last season to sign one of the richest contracts in rugby league history at the Eels.
He was the architect of Parramatta’s early season surge before he was hospitalised and diagnosed with depression.
He will have a strong support network, headed by his father Greg Foran, who is the CEO and President of Walmart America, where he earnt $19.5 million last year.
Coach Brad Arthur declined to comment when contacted by The Daily Telegraph this morning.
“The club has offered to do whatever we can to help him,” said one Eels official, “and that offer stands.”
