Former Newcastle Knight player Alex McKinnon – who suffered a devastating spinal injury in a tackle in 2014 – is reportedly suing the NRL in order to secure compensation for the incident, which has left him paralysed. It is reported that Melbourne Storm player Jordan McLean, who made the tackle, will be personally pursued.
If the News Corp report is true, this is a massive and unprecedented move – though compensation claims have been pursued against individual players, this would be the first time a body such as the NRL has been targeted.
NRL chief Todd Greenberg was reportedly informed of the proceedings in a meeting with McKinnon six weeks ago, which was described as cordial. Greenberg reportedly told McKinnon “do what you have to do”. At the time of the incident, NRL boss Dave Smith had promised McKinnon he would have a job with the NRL for life.
McLean, who is now reportedly being pursued for compensation, was suspended for seven games for the dangerous throw which resulted in a severe neck injury.
Reports from earlier in the year indicate that McKinnon is now capable of walking short distances assisted with a frame, harness and trainer. He is currently indirectly employed by the NRL, as he works in player recruitment for the NRL-owned Newcastle Knights.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald.
Photo: Getty Images.
