NRL breach notice: Phil Gould

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The National Rugby League (NRL) today issued Bulldogs General Manager of Football Phil Gould with a breach notice alleging a breach of the NRL Code of Conduct (Code).

The notice proposes a fine for Gould of $20,000, half of which will be suspended for a period of 24 months.

It is alleged that on the 100% Footy program on Monday evening, Gould made public comments considered to be detrimental to the best interests of the game, in contravention of the NRL Rules.

The Code provides that no person bound by the Code shall engage in any conduct which is detrimental to, brings into disrepute, is inconsistent with, is contrary to, or is prejudicial to, the best interests, image or welfare of the ARLC, the NRL, the NRL Competition, the Related Competitions, the Representative Competitions, the Clubs or the Game.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said there was no place in the game for public comments of that nature.

"We welcome constructive criticism and passionate opinions, but registered officials cannot overstep the mark and make comments that are considered detrimental to the game or NRL competition. Destructive attacks on the game itself will not be tolerated," Mr Abdo said.

"This is a professional sport and our leaders should set the standard around reasoned debate and respect for the game."

Gould has five business days to respond to the breach notice.