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Wests Tigers stand down football manager Mark O'Neill over alleged misconduct
By Michael Chammas and Chris Barrett
Wests Tigers premiership winner Mark O'Neill has been stood down indefinitely from his role as the club's football general manager pending an investigation into alleged misconduct.
Fairfax Media understands the Wests Tigers are investigating allegations of inappropriate behaviour involving O'Neill and a colleague and he has been asked to remain away from the club's Concord headquarters until the investigation is complete.
Under investigation: Wests Tigers general manager of football Mark O'Neill. Credit: Dallas Kilponen
The Wests Tigers have informed the NRL integrity unit of allegations but the governing body believes it is a matter for the club to resolve.
Tigers chair Marina Go confirmed there was an investigation into the alleged misconduct.
"It is acknowledged that the board has been advised of an incident involving a staff member," Go said.
"The board has instructed an independent investigation to be carried out. We will apply the proper legal process and until then I can't make further comment."
O'Neill, a former Tigers captain who rejoined the club this season to oversee its football operations, is one of the most respected figures in the game and holds a special place inside the Tigers organisation after helping the club win its only premiership back in 2005.
However the recent allegations have cast a shadow over his position at his beloved club, who only appointed O'Neill into the role in March this year.
The club is still investigating allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards the staff member, who continues to work with the club while officials delve into the matter.
O'Neill, who began his playing career for Balmain in 1994 played 102 games for the club before representing the Wests Tigers joint-venture on 121 occasions between 2000 and 2005.
The 41-year-old finished his career playing in the English Super League and worked with the NRL match review committee after hanging up the boots in 2007.
After eight years at the NRL, O'Neill took on the job as the general manager of the Tigers six months ago and had to oversee the departure of close friend Robbie Farah from the club to arch rivals South Sydney.
Fairfax Media tried to contact O'Neill on Sunday afternoon, however he declined to comment.
O'Neill was a notable no-show at the club's presentation night in Lilyfield a fortnight ago, in which Dene Halatau and Chris Lawrence were inducted into the club's hall of fame.