Force kick controversy into touch

WESTERN FORCE flanker David Pocock says the team has given little thought to the controversy surrounding coach John Mitchell as the start of the Super 14 season edges closer.

The Force went down fighting in their 24-19 pre-season loss to the Crusaders on Friday night in what was a welcome fixture for the players after an off-season dogged by uncertainty over Mitchell's future.

Although the findings of an independent inquiry into Mitchell's relationship with staff and players are yet to be handed down, Pocock was adamant the off-field dramas had not affected the squad's preparation.

"I think, throughout this whole pre-season, blokes have been looking forward to getting into it and playing rugby and doing our jobs and letting the other stuff take care of itself," Pocock said.

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