SYDNEY: Australian Rugby Union chief John O’Neill is “utterly confused” at much of the criticism levelled by Quade Cooper at his organisation and says it is up to the flyhalf if he plays for the Wallabies again.
Cooper, currently sidelined by injury, said in a television interview on Thursday he would not play for Australia unless changes were made to the “toxic” environment surrounding the team, which he felt was “destroying” him.
“Most disturbingly, he was firm about not playing for the Wallabies unless things change,” O’Neill said in a statement released yesterday.
“If that is how he feels, then that is his choice. The reality is a decision on whether or not he stays in Australian rugby has to this point rested with him since he received an ARU offer in early July.”
The 24-year-old’s contract with the ARU expires at the end of the year and he has not signed a new deal. In the television interview, Cooper slammed the defensive tactics of coach Robbie Deans.
“Much of what was said ... has left us utterly confused,” O’Neill added. Quade wants more of a say in the game plan, he wants to play his style of game. He certainly made that clear. Yet he also said he could adapt if required.
REUTERS
