Tom Trbojevic dragged into Manly's ugly 'club politics' drama
Manly superstar Tom Trbojevic has been told to stay out of club politics and concentrate on repaying the club's heavy investment in him as anger and uncertainty continues to rage over Des Hasler's future.
Hasler's relationship with club bosses is almost at the 'beyond repair' stage, the only question remaining is to whether he will leave immediately or see out the final year of his deal in 2023.
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Trbojevic is firmly in the coach's corner and was named, but not quoted, in a New Corp story this week supporting Hasler's retention.
That led to a sharp rebuke from Sea Eagles life member and outspoken media commentator Peter Peters.
Zorba told Sky Sports' Big Sports Breakfast Weekend program: "I'm not liking the fact (Tom's) involving himself in club politics.
"He should concentrate on giving value for money on the field.
"He's supporting his embattled coach Des Hasler, which is his right, but I think players should stick to themselves in something like this.
"In effect, Turbo is telling his bosses he doesn’t agree with the current stand-off despite them paying him $1.2m for his seven games this season."
Trbojevic brothers loyal to Des Hasler
The Trbojevic brothers share the same manager as Hasler – George Mimis – and are naturally loyal to their coach.
They also stood by former coach Trent Barrett before he was shown the door and replaced by Hasler in 2019.
Yahoo Sport Australia understands the Manly hierarchy is upset Tom Trbojevic has involved himself in the Hasler saga, which promises to get even uglier before it’s resolved.
There are heavy politics being played out behind the scenes at Brookvale, with no clear end in sight.
Hasler is pushing for stability and minimal disruption over wholesale change, banking on his years of experience and success to turn the club around after a poor 2022 campaign.
Club bosses want to see a clear plan for 2023 and beyond and won't accept more of the same with a few tweaks here and there.
With pre-season training set to begin in early November, the race is on to resolve the issue before players return.
The more the drama drags on, the less likely it appears Hasler will remain in charge.
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