NRL's mass rejection of Israel Folau comeback

Israel Folau has sought a face-to-face meeting with NRL officials about returning to the competition.

Yet that request won't be granted unless a club formally applies to sign him and privately, each club has said that they have no interest.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the development, along with some comments from club officials that pour cold water on Folau's hope of a comeback.

"One club boss described Folau as "damaged goods", while another admitted the risk wasn't worth taking," the Herald reported.

A St George Illawarra attempt to sign Folau has already been scrapped due to negative backlash. The Herald reported that it had subsequently contacted all 16 NRL clubs.

"None said they were prepared to sign him, with many privately concerned about the adverse publicity the move would attract."

Folau played last season with Super League club Catalans Dragons, whose coach – Steve McNamara – said that he would be welcome back.

Folau was sacked by Rugby Australia over homophobic social media remarks and the NRL subsequently said that he would not be welcome back in their competition.

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