While acknowledging Josh Schuster’s “baggage,” Manly coach Anthony Seibold defends the under-fire star
Josh Schuster, a top player for the Sea Eagles, will not participate in Manly’s NRL season opener against the Rabbitohs because of a “challenging” calf injury.
The 22-year-old was originally scheduled to play in the trial match last weekend, but due to a nagging injury, he was ruled out. As a result, he will remain at home as his Sea Eagles teammates go to Las Vegas for a historic match at Allegiant Stadium.
Due to form and injury issues, Schuster had a difficult 2023 season; yet, the team continued to have trust in the utility player and signed him to a long-term contract.
Head coach Anthony Seibold acknowledged Schuster was a possibility while speaking to the media prior to the team’s international departure, but the medical staff decided to take a cautious approach.
“He was fairly near,” stated Seibold.
“Josh has completed training well the past two runs; it’s only that it’s tight… These are minor cautionary tales or red flags.
“His greatest chance of playing will come from a few weeks of rehabilitation with the crew that was left behind.
“I’ve put timeframes on it the past two weeks, but I don’t want to do that anymore because it puts Schuey under pressure.”
Since making his debut for Manly in 2020, Schuster has participated in 50 NRL games. He played some of his greatest rugby in the back row as the team advanced to the 2021 finals series.
Despite his high price tag and early intentions to play in the halves, Schuster will return to the forwards with the acquisition of Luke Brooks, having previously been trialed as a No. 6 alongside national star Daly Cherry-Evans.
In response to the young star’s criticism, Seibold gently reminded Schuster of the challenging trip he had traveled since entering first grade as a youngster.
It’s quite difficult. He’s a great little boy, and although I’ve heard from people outside the club that he’s not a tough trainer, Seibold clarified that he is.
“He carries some baggage.” I assume since he hasn’t always been reliable, but I don’t believe Josh Schuster will be at his best for 24 or 12 months.
