Flanagan cleared to return to coaching

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Shane Flanagan

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Flanagan was slapped with a 12-month ban in December for failing to uphold his duty of care to players.

He fronted an NRL committee in September in a bid to be reinstated but was turned down after failing to fully complete some of the conditions imposed on him by the NRL, including completing workplace health and safety training.

But the controversial coach is now free to resume his duties effective immediately.

"The NRL has been impressed with Mr Flanagan’s commitment to meeting the conditions set down for his return," NRL head of integrity Nick Weeks said.

"Consequently his suspension is lifted and he can return to coaching duties at any time."

In a statement Flanagan said he was now better equipped and more capable of fulfilling his duties as an NRL head coach.

"I have a clearer understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a head coach,” he said.

"That role goes beyond player skills, tactics and game plans – I have a proactive duty to protect the welfare of players and staff and ensure we meet our governance and compliance obligations.

"I now intend to focus on the future and demonstrate that I am the right person to lead the cultural change at the Sharks.

"I am committed to restoring the reputation of the Sharks as a club that everybody in the game can be proud of."

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