The playing future of controversial new Cessnock recruit Paul Carter should be decided by the end of the week with Newcastle league boss Matt Harris in favour of giving him the opportunity to resurrect his career at the Goannas.
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Sacked by three NRL clubs and currently serving a two year good behaviour bond after pleading guilty to a drugs charge, Carter has applied to have his deregistration lifted with the matter now in the hands of the NSWRL..
“I’d be hopeful we will know something by the end of this week,”Harris said.
“The NSWRL have a submission from Cessnock and it’s my understanding they will discuss the case with the NRL Integrity Unit before making a determination.”
Harris said the Newcastle RL will abide by whatever ruling the NSWRL makes but his personal view is Carter should be given the green light.
“I’d like to see him given another opportunity and judging by his comments in the Herald today, he had taken full responsibility for his past indiscretions and wants to turn his life around which is a really positive sign,”he said.
“He’s also got some good people around him at the club and clearly knows the consequences should he stuff up again.”
Carter told the Newcastle Herald he understands why his future is under scrutiny.
“I totally understand where they are coming from because the game doesn’t want to be promoting the things that I’ve done and I understand that,”he said.
“I take full responsibility for everything that has come my way for my actions.
“But I’ve made a decision in coming here to Cessnock which I believe will be the best thing for me going forward.
“Hopefully, they can understand that and all will be well.”
