NRL star checks into rehab facility

Star NRL centre James Roberts has checked into a facility to assist with and support his health problems.

It is the third time the South Sydney flyer has sought professional help throughout his career, and he has been praised for making the decision to do so once again.

He is the first NRL player to openly look for help since the season was suspended as a result of Covid-19 restrictions, and fellow centre Justin O’Neill says it was a brave admission to make.

“It takes a lot of courage to put your hand up and be able to get the help that you need,” he told NRL.com. “It’s definitely tough times that we are going through, not just for people in sport or people in rugby league but for everyone in our community.

“I definitely think we are going to see some people struggling mentally so to be able to put your hand up and get the help you need is I think very brave.”

The Rabbitohs released a statement confirming the news, whilst also asking the public respect Roberts’ and his family’s privacy: “On behalf of James and his family, we ask the media and the public to respect their privacy.

“No further comment will be made by the Rabbitohs, James, his management or his family at this time.”