Sydney Roosters coach Brian Smith has conceded internal ructions are troubling the Eastern Suburbs-based club after another disappointing NRL season.
Any slim hopes the Roosters had of playing finals football this season were dashed on Sunday in their 28-16 loss to Penrith. A defeat which again followed reports of player dissatisfaction with Smith.
Smith talked around the issue of internal problems at the official post game press conference, but later spoke on radio of the troubles which have surfaced following a season in which just six wins and a draw.
“We are not the happiest little vegemites because we haven’t got where we wanted to be this season,” Smith told ABC Grandstand.
“Some of those things are going to cause some angst and distrust, that’s what happens in professional football clubs.”
Smith bristled at when queried about reports he was at odds with halfback Mitchell Pearce who had another disappointing game in the Roosters’ poor showing.
Pearce declined to talk to reporters in the dressing rooms after the game but told ABC Grandstand on the field immediately after the match at Penrith he was irritated by continued reports he wanted a Luke Lewis-style release from the final year of his contract with the Roosters in 2013.
“Yes, I will be at the club next year,” Pearce said.
“I’m sick of seeing my name in the papers. It is really pissing me off.”