After his latest brain snap against the Rabbitohs last week, the next month of football looms as a career-defining stretch for Sydney Roosters firebrand Spencer Leniu.
With his future at the Bondi-based club already under scrutiny, the enforcer has been warned that his discipline and performance could determine whether he stays at the club.
Watch every game of every round of the Premiership Season LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
Having built his game around aggression and intimidation, reports have emerged over the past couple of months that he has found himself on the outer of the Roosters and has been linked with a number of teams such as the Parramatta Eels.
“I don’t want to overstate this but it could be contract-defining,” CODE Sports reporter David Riccio said on NRL 360.
“Because if it’s a final series and he loses his mind due to the fact that we’ve been talking about (he could be out of the club).
“Spencer’s future at the Roosters (has been speculated) for a number of weeks, months.
“It could be contract-defining, and the Roosters would let him go if he doesn’t learn from that.”
Calls for NRL clubs to sign Tyrell Sloan | 01:41
While Leniu’s discipline remains a concern heading into the clash on Friday night against the Panthers, the club know they need exactly what he brings to the table.
“I think it was stupid what he did (against the Rabbitohs), but the Roosters need someone like him,” former Roosters utility and NRL 360 co-host Braith Anasta said.
“They don’t have someone like him. The Roosters need to fire up this series.
“Obviously missing Sam now, their last three weeks have been average. If he can do this and cut the shi* out, that’s what he needs.”
“He’d know that going into the game, Robbo [Trent Robinson] would give him strict instructions and what he wants him to do and that’s it.
“They need everyone at their best, so they’re probably happy to roll the dice because people are writing them off now.”
Will Tom Dearden move to a Sydney club? | 03:40
Meanwhile, Gorden Tallis challenged Leniu to turn his trademark aggression into production on the field, rather than getting involved in scuffles or fight with opposing players.
“Turn your words into runs. Get Jared (Waerea-Hargreaves) to have a coffee with him this week,” Tallis said.
“All they are words. I have never actually seen him throw a punch, so turn those words into runs.
“He threw the ball, which was worse than a punch.”