ANGRY Saints' coach Ellery Hanley has denied reports that he was instrumental in signing Australian forward Phil Adamson.

Dubbed 'the Tower,' 6ft 4in Adamson signed for Saints from Penrith Panthers before Ellery arrived last August, but has made only three appearances pn the substitute's bench

Said Hanley: "An article appeared in the programme for the away game at London Broncos which stated that I was responsible for bringing Phil to Knowsley Road. That is not true.I hold nothing personal against Adamson. I just feel I should not have to explain myself to supporters, and I am happy to say Adamson is working hard and playing in the Alliance side.

"I do not seek credit and I am prepared to accept valid criticism, but do not involve myself in politics, because what happens on the field is my only concern, and I gave football manager Eric Hughes the chance to clarify the matter in the next programme.

"However, as the man who signed Adamson, Eric failed to do this, and as a result my column in the programme has not appeared since,'' added Ellery.

Hughes commented: "I am disappointed that Phil Adamson has been singled out to emphasise the fact that the current squad was assembled before Ellery Hanley was appointed.

"Since then the signings of Kevin Iro and Sonny Nickle were announced and, although negotiations started before Ellery arrived, he was immediately informed and played a major part in persuading them to come here.

"Adamson had five years in Australian first-grade rugby and only just missed tour selection and, unfortunately, is not being selected at Saints. That is Hanley's prerogative as coach and there is no interference from me or other officials.

"However, I could not support the singling out of any player for such special attention in the club programme, because I do not believe it is the right vehicle," added Eric Hughes.

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