Rugby League star accused for a second time of homophobia wants situation dealt with

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The Rugby League star who is being investigated for allegedly using a homophobic slur against another player, following a suspension for the same thing, has addressed the incident.

Leeds Rhinos star Zak Hardaker was handed a five match ban and a £300 fine in June, after calling a player a “f**king faggot”. He later said the ban made him a “better person”.

However, it was reported earlier in September that the 22-year-old will again be investigated by the Rugby Football League (RFL) again, for alleged homophobic abuse in a match during which the Leeds Rhinos were defeated by St Helens on Friday.

Now Hardaker has addressed the investigation, saying he is unclear on what is happening. He said: “I was investigated last week and that’s about as much as I’ve heard.

“Personally, I don’t think they’ve got enough evidence to do it because, if they did, they would have got me two or three weeks ago, wouldn’t they?

“I can deal with people giving me a load of jip – when I played at Wigan I got booed every time I touched the ball and that didn’t bother me too much.

“But my mum’s not that keen on it. I would just rather it be sorted and be over and done with because it’s no good for anyone.”

Following the second allegation, Leeds Chief Executive Gary Hetherington said he thought there was a “witch hunt” by the RFA against Hardaker. 

 

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