Melbourne Storm CEO Dave Donaghy has come to the defence of his under siege captain Cameron Smith after reports surfaced of Alex McKinnon’s anger toward the Maroons legend.

Donaghy took questions from Triple M NRL yesterday ahead of McKinnon’s story which appeared last night on 60 Minutes.

“I have no doubts he would want to reach out,” Donaghy said.

“Hopefully Alex is willing to receive the phone call as well.

“It was a surprise that the story was focused on him (Smith).

“Alex’s recovery is such an inspirational story.

“In the days after it the playing group, led by Cameron, tried to visit Alex in hospital but those requests were denied which was understandable.

“It is a little surprising the take on that and the timing of it.”