David Klemmer to leave Newcastle Knights, rift with coach Adam O’Brien – Michmutters
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David Klemmer to leave Newcastle Knights, rift with coach Adam O’Brien

Tough prop David Klemmer is expected to survive calls to sack him from the Knights for disciplinary breaches this week – but don’t expect him to be at the club in 2023.

Klemmer – arguably the best player in a disappointing Knights team this season – was handed a breach notice by the club for failing to come off the field when directed to leave by trainer Hayden Knowles in Sunday’s loss to Canterbury.

There have been murmurs that Klemmer could have his contract torn up over the issue – but I’m hearing he will just be slapped with a fine and a reprimand.

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The incident comes in a week of turmoil for Klemmer in which he almost jumped ship to Parramatta on Monday – the deadline day for player transfers.

There is clearly a rift between Klemmer and coach Adam O’Brien and that is likely to see him part ways with the club at season’s end despite having another 12 months to run on his lucrative contract.

Given his strong form in a badly out-of-form team, several rival clubs are certain to show interest in Klemmer.

The uneasy situation between Klemmer and the club will be an early test for veteran administrator Peter Parr, who is joining the Knights from the Cowboys.

Klemmer is a popular member of the playing group whereas several top-line players aren’t happy with O’Brien, further complicating a messy situation.

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