Jake Trbojevic has likely played his last game for the year, with the Sea Eagles veteran urged by the club to sit out the final three rounds.
The 31-year-old was sidelined for Sunday’s loss against the Wests Tigers after suffering his third concussion of the year, leading to concerns over his NRL future.
Trbojevic was knocked out in Manly’s round 23 game against Canberra and was stood down under the mandatory 11-day return-to-play protocols.
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Nine’s Danny Weidler reports the club have now made it known their “preference” is for Trbojevic to rest for the remainder of the season.
Head coach Anthony Seibold confirmed that the experienced lock-forward wouldn’t feature in Manly’s must-win clash with the Dolphins in round 25.
“The only update that I know about Jake is that he won’t play next week,” he said.
“We’ll get further medical advice, but we won’t be rushing Jake back. He’s had three or four concussions over the last 12 months.
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“His well being comes before footy by a massive distance. I don’t want to talk for Jake or talk for the medical staff, but I know that he definitely won’t be playing next week.
“We need to make sure that we then reassess and look at where he’s going.”
The edict from Sea Eagles officials would also rule Trbojevic out of contention for the Kangaroos squad for the year-end Ashes series.
Jake Trbojevic Getty
Kevin Walters confirmed earlier this month that Trbojevic was in the mix to earn a spot in the 22-man touring squad, but that prospect must now be in serious doubt.
Australia will be without Payne Haas for the three-game series against England, with the superstar enforcer committing to play for Samoa in the Pacific Championships.
Tino Fa’asuamaleaui has also been linked with a defection away from Kangaroos duties.