HappilyManly
Journey Man
Obviously the Prince of Brookvale, the Marquis de Manly Vale is playing injured and is probably 50% fit. I suspect knee problems as well as chronic hammies. He needs time - probably weeks and weeks, to get to, say, 85% match fitness. On the other hand, the club are paying him $54.2 k / month to play, presumably as Fullback for Manly.
Long term damage to his legs, knees, hammies or any other aspects, would no longer be the club's concern as we can all see, that unless there is a sudden turnaround, this will be his last year. ie There will be no long term.
Therefore the club are playing him to extract value and for the sake of 'team combination' because he still helps with backline attack and is still 'safe at the back', albeit as long as he anticipates where the ball is gonna be, which he does do, nearly all of the time.
But continuing to play him in these circumstances, (although he would be willing because he is still 'Manly') is actually an indication of disrespect to Brett. Tommy T could easily fill in at FB. After these 13 yrs at the top, his 163 tries, two premierships, WCC's etc etc (minus the 2 seasons where he virtually did not play), the Club owe him a dignified and respectful end to his Manly days. That is why Trent Barrett, who is a beginner, MUST REST Snake until he is fit.
If a player is injured and can't play long term, do Clubs have access to income protection insurance ?
i don't agree with the line of Manly owing a player anything. The contract should cover each parties' obligations.