Anthony Gelling’s Super League career is under threat after he was suspended by Warrington Wolves pending a police investigation.
The Cook Islands international is now unavailable for selection following his arrest on suspicion of wounding with intent on Saturday.
The 29-year-old has only played twice for the Wolves after switching from neighbours Widnes during the close season.
Prior to that he was a Grand Final winner at Wigan and played in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors.
Gelling had earned the nickname “Man of the People” for his quirky social media posts and riding a BMX to matches.
But he now faces an uncertain future while both the club and police investigate the alleged incident at weekend.
A statement from Cheshire Police read: “At 3pm on Saturday 8 February police received a report of an assault at an address on Cronton Lane Mews in Widnes.
“A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.
“He has been questioned by detectives and released on conditional bail.
“Enquiries into the assault remain ongoing.”
The Wolves had earlier released a statement that read: “Warrington Wolves can confirm that centre Anthony Gelling will not be available for selection pending a club investigation into conduct away from the club.
“Gelling is fully supportive of the investigation.
“The club and player will be making no further comment at this time.”
Gelling courted controversy early in his career when he was sacked by Sydney Roosters for defecating in a hotel room.
His suspension comes just a week after Super League clubs agreed to put measures in place to block the signing of players with controversial pasts following Israel Folau's move to Catalans Dragons.
