Tigers give broken Tuiaki a lucky break
The Wests Tigers have re-signed injury-ravaged winger Taniela Tuiaki for another NRL season despite concerns his troublesome ankle may prematurely end his career.
Tuiaki, who was the leading try-scorer for 2009 before suffering a badly broken ankle in a round 24 match against Parramatta, has accepted the life-line which will keep him in Tigertown for the 2011 season.
The powerful Kiwi international was the 2009 Dally M Winger of the Year, and the Tigers are desperately hoping the giant winger can get back to his best after 12 months on the sidelines.
After multiple operations, Tuiaki has not looked like playing at all this season and while a finals return hasn't been totally ruled out, it seems highly unlikely.
"The injury happened a year ago tomorrow and it was a significant one, said Tigers chief executive Stephen Humphreys on Friday.
"It has been a long road back for Taniela but he has worked extremely hard and we have been tireless in our support of his rehabilitation.
"Taniela is one of the most popular players at our club and whilst there is still some risk around him regaining peak fitness, we strongly believe it is the right decision to support him and provide him with this opportunity."
Tuiaki said he was looking forward to the challenge ahead.
"I love the Wests Tigers and the support this club has given me, from players, officials and staff, has been terrific," said Tuiaki, who had been linked with a move to Parramatta
"I will continue to work hard on my rehab with the aim being to regain my position in the NRL team.
"I really want to thank the Wests Tigers for their belief in me and I will do my best to re-pay them."
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