Players 'support' Quade's gripe
Quade Cooper is not a lone wolf.
The Queensland Reds fly-half is understood to be taking a bullet for several of his Wallabies teammates who harbour similar concerns about Australian Rugby Union's governance of the game and the national team's dwindling stocks.
While Cooper is frustrated with the Wallabies' game plans and Robbie Deans's selection policies, he is also perturbed with the code's senior administrators, whom he believes have let union's brand retreat significantly.
A source close to the team said several Wallabies shared his grievances but did not agree with airing the dirty laundry in public, especially through social media.
Cooper declared the Wallabies set-up a "toxic environment" last week, knowing his profile would see the comments gain maximum traction and hopefully lead to change.
Former dual-code star Russell Fairfax called for Cooper's comments to be investigated by the ARU.
"It's up to the ARU now to launch an investigation into what Quade's saying. Australian rugby owes it to their dwindling fans, their sceptical players ... they need to investigate this," he said.
Many rugby fans have written off Cooper's claims because of his controversial history and perceived personality. The truth is it would be hard to find a footballer who puts more effort into connecting with the rugby community. The 24-year-old is often the last player to enter the Reds dressingroom after a home match because he signs autographs in the stands.
Cooper's criticism of Deans is the second time in 12 months that a star five-eighth has publicly denounced the Wallabies coach.
Read more: http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/wa...#ixzz27djwDvWs
There is a poll with the article I've just posted
Cooper's Criticism - Do you agree with Quade Cooper?
Yes
66.06%
No
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