Aussie coach slams Super League's reliance on foreigners

England's campaign ended with a disappointing 32-22 defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final

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Monday, 17, Nov 2008 10:16

Australia coach Ricky Stuart has said the number of foreign players in the Super League is the reason for England's failure at the World Cup.

England's campaign came to a disappointing end when they were beaten by New Zealand in the semi-final on Saturday, and Stuart maintains that England will only become a major player once they have slashed the number of foreigners in the Super League.

"After what I have witnessed over the past month from England, the international game has suffered terribly," said Stuart, whose Australia side meet New Zealand in this weekend's final.

"The top-end product, their national side, has been disadvantaged by the scramble from Super League owners, coaches and managers to ensure their own individual success.

"Since the last World Cup, England have gone backwards. There's really no denying it and it's difficult to see any improvement at the elite level while clubs persist in raiding Australia and New Zealand for talent.

"The lack of focus on developing their youth is made clear by the fact that approximately 39% of the players in the English Super League are imports.

"How is that a benefit to the development of their grassroots football? What message does that send to any kids aspiring to play for England?"

New regulations in the Super League limiting the dependence clubs have on foreign players, but Stuart feels that even this won't be enough to help the future of the game in the United Kingdom.

"The days of Great Britain producing classy, seasoned footballers seem so long ago," he said.

"Until a limit is placed on imports in the English league, or a shift away from raiding Australia and New Zealand, I just can't see the international game going forward in the UK.

"They have to search for players in their own backyard first."