A move that has made many fans angry and disillusioned, Kieran Foran will join the New Zealand Warriors on a one-year deal.
Foran, who left former club Parramatta with much fanfare to work on some deep-seeded personal issues, joins a Warriors side boasting a formidable spine.
The move will not please Eels fans, though, who believe that Foran merely used their club for various reasons.
Warriors fans will like the move, however, as they add a quality half to their already star-studded team.
Foran, who is now rebuilding both his personal life and his rugby league career, felt that playing in New Zealand was the best option for him.
He informed Warriors Managing Director Jim Doyle of his intentions.
“I’ve been in touch with Kieran regularly this year to offer support as he has dealt with the well-documented challenges he has been facing,” said Doyle.
“We have worked through the option of coming to Auckland carefully with him. There has been much to consider in creating an environment for Kieran to not only return to football but also to put all the support around him that he needs.
“I’m delighted that following those discussions, Kieran has now decided to join the Vodafone Warriors. The next step is to work alongside the NRL to cover off all requirements to have the contract registered.”
Recovering in Sydney as he dealt with personal issues, Foran had a lot of time to think about life and what he wanted out of it.
“I’ve had a lot of time to think about my future over the last few months,” said Foran from Sydney.
“Initially footy was the furthest thing from my mind and I needed time away from the game. More recently the desire to play again has completely returned and I’m very keen to make a big contribution next year.”
Foran felt that a return home in a country that is near and dear to him was the best decision to make at the present time.
“While I had other options, coming to Auckland emerged as the best decision for me. Being in a new environment was important but I’m also incredibly excited by the potential of the club and the quality roster it has. I can’t wait to be part of the team and I want to play a major role in 2017 in taking the club to the next level,” added Foran.
“I have so many people to thank for making this happen and for supporting me through what’s been a tough period.
“Now I want to repay them. The Vodafone Warriors have so much to offer and I’m looking forward to working with so many players I know from the Kiwis as well as Mooks (Stephen Kearney).”
New Warriors coach Stephen Kearney is pleased to have the Kiwi international on board.
“He’s such a high-quality footballer and competitor who will add a lot to our squad,” he said.
“Kieran and I have been in contact throughout the year and I know he has made a lot of progress with the challenges he has had. I’m extremely pleased to have him on board.”