Jimmy the Jet trying
Bennett stands by Rabbitohs star after latest rehab stint
WAYNE Bennett has vowed to stand by Souths star James Roberts, who he insists will not retire as the former Bronco wages another personal battle in rehab.
It was confirmed yesterday Roberts checked into a mental-health facility two weeks ago following private discussions with South Sydney officials, including coach Bennett and chief executive Blake Solly.
Souths officials are deeply concerned for Roberts’ emotional wellbeing. The club has been providing support during the past 14 days after Roberts confided in Bennett he was struggling mentally, prompting the Rabbitohs to grant ‘The Jet’ compassionate leave.
It is the third time in four years the former NSW Origin ace has sought professional treatment after two previous visits to a rehab facility in Thailand to address issues with alcohol, anxiety and depression.
Just 12 months ago, Roberts was thrown a lifeline by the Rabbitohs and Bennett, his former coach at the Broncos, after he fell out of favour at Red Hill under Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold.
Roberts’ latest cry for help has raised doubts over his future in the NRL but Bennett says the 27-year-old cannot be lost to the game.
“James will be coming back, there is no suggestion he will walk away from football. He needs football,” Bennett said yesterday.
“James is trying to deal with a lot of personal stuff. I will stand by James.
“He is coming back to training and he will be playing again this season.
“I don’t know how long it (his stint in rehab) will go on but we just need to work through it.”
The coronavirus pandemic has tested the resolve of many NRL players and Roberts, who has previously spoken of private struggles related to his childhood, has gone off the rails in recent weeks.
It is understood alcohol abuse is not at the core of Roberts’ current problem, with the former Broncos strike centre instead dealing with some personal demons.
Once regarded as the fastest man in the NRL, Roberts had a mixed return to Redfern last season, scoring one try from 12 games. Determined to recapture his attacking thrust, Roberts had a superb off-season, stripping 8kg from his frame in a bid to reclaim his NSW Origin jumper and vindicate Bennett’s decision to sign him.
Roberts played the opening two games this season but is unlikely to feature in Souths’ next game after the NRL’s planned return on May 28.