'Happens multiple times a game': Storm prop faces the music over tackle that injured Nathan Cleary
Updated . First published at
Storm forward Josh King was an unlikely pick to represent Melbourne at the grand final press conference on Thursday and he was forced to shut down criticism of his tackling technique, with Nathan Cleary's shoulder injury a hot topic ahead of the NRL grand final.
The star halfback was sidelined after a round 24 clash against Melbourne, with a rather innocuous tackle from King leaving the Penrith champion in agony.
While he was able to come back in time for the finals, Cleary is still below 100 per cent heading into Sunday's blockbuster clash, but claims he will be fit to play.
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During a media and fan event on Thursday, the ever-reliable King was put on the spot when he was quizzed about the incident and whether there was any intent behind it.
Josh King during the NRL fan fest media conference. Getty
"Not really, to be fair," he replied.
"I certainly wasn't trying to do any wrestling moves that people have come out and said.
"I would assume that sort of tackle would happen multiple times a game. I don't think there was anything in it and I certainly don't have any grievances against Nathan.
"I'm not on social media, so I haven't seen all the reports about that."
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King has become one of Melbourne's most consistent players over the past 18 months, bringing a no-nonsense approach in the front-row that perfectly complements the brute size and strength of Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Tui Kamikamica.
Replays of the tackle in question would indicate there was nothing illegal and when it was brought up to Cleary, who brushed aside any animosity.
Josh King tackles Nathan Cleary in round 24. Nine
"Nah, not at all," he said.
"Honestly, i didn't even think of it at the time. It was just one of those unlucky positions and it's just an injury, it's unfortunate.
"It's a contact sport - I didn't even think about that after."
King has been named at prop for the Storm heading into the decider, with Cleary in his customary No.7 jumper as he searches for a fourth-straight title.
