LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Parramatta Eels coach Jason Ryles has addressed reports regarding Bailey Simonsson, who requested an immediate release from the team earlier this week.
Simonsson, one of the first players Ryles extended at the end of last year, has been a reliable contributor to the club's backline over the past four seasons.
Previously with the Canberra Raiders, the injury-stricken outside back recently reached his 100-game milestone but has played only two matches in first grade since Round 10 due to being overlooked in recent weeks.
This led to reports on Monday indicating that he had asked for a release from the Eels.
Regarding Simonsson's situation during a press briefing on Saturday, Ryles expressed hope that he would return to training next week after being granted a leave of absence.
"Bailey made that decision to stay away for a couple of days which we fully supported," Ryles stated via The Daily Telegraph on Saturday, prior to the club's upcoming match against the North Queensland Cowboys.