Some solid points HM....I still really feel Turbo was partly rested due to his previous injury, which could easily reoccur if not managed.
I do feel however, the money is relevant as it makes him a marquee player that others look up to, enabling the side to lift and if it was a Must win crunch game for Manly, I reckon the Manly staff would have had him out there.
Also as a halfback who is meant to control a game, the importance lifts, however the 2 most influential players in the NRL are 2 freak fullbacks in Turbo and Tedesco, along with Smith which is rare.
On the mental aspect, its a tough 1 as there are mental issues which 100% would need consideration and time out, but a major effect with some of the players recently have been down to lifestyle choices including excessive substances (alcohol/drugs/poor diet) and a massive issue is gambling.
I certainly don't judge either, but as an NRL player on Massive coin, it doesn't seem fair to miss game time imo based on poor choices, yet has contributed big time in recent years.
If anyone here has a big night on the drink they are expected to back up for work and tbh, I think they would.
