NRL: Kieran Foran voices support for Bulldogs coach Des Hasler

Kieran Foran. Photo / Photosport.

Departing Warriors five-eighth Kieran Foran has spoken out in support of under-fire Canterbury Bulldogs coach Des Hasler.

The Bulldogs-bound playmaker is concerned by the ongoing speculation around Hasler's future after the huge part he played in Foran's decision to sign with the Belmore club.

"I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't be disappointed if Des isn't there next year," Foran told Sydney's Daily Telegraph.

"I don't have a clause or anything in my contract but really I'm hoping he's there.

"I'm coming back to Sydney first and foremost to be with my children but Des was a big reason, too."

Foran will leave the Warriors after one season and reunite with Hasler, who coached him to a 2011 grand final win during their time together at the Manly Sea Eagles.

The Kiwis international has been recruited to remedy the Bulldogs woeful attack that sees them running last in the NRL in points scored.

The 27-year-old has battled injury for much of the season and recently came under fire from former Kiwis and Warriors coach Frank Endacott who suggested his mind was already on next year.

Foran told the Daily Telegraph the debate over whether Hasler should keep his job was unfair.

"At the moment I'm only worried about finishing the year strongly at the Warriors," he said.

"But you've asked me about next year. I find it hard to believe they'd be thinking of replacing him.

"You've got to bring in someone better. If it was Craig Bellamy available to come you could understand there's a debate, but Des has taken them to two grand finals and I know he's a great coach.

"Surely he's earned the respect to have one lean year."