I'll take Todd back, says father figure
Todd Carney's rugby league father figure has offered to rescue the troubled NRL star's career - again.
North Queensland rugby league official Mick Nasser says he's only a phone call away if the Dally M Medallist needs another reality check.
"I know what he's like. He's been down this road a few times," Nasser told AAP on Monday.
Roosters officials are considering the playing futures of both Carney and teammate Anthony Watts, who were out together drinking at a Kings Cross nightclub late Saturday night.
"I don't know if it's all getting a bit much for him. He's never indicated that to me," said Nasser, the president of the Atherton Roosters.
"He's gone close to walking away before. It wouldn't surprise me if he walked away this time."
Nasser owned the hotel where Carney worked and rebuilt his life in 2009 after being punted by Canberra.
"I just know what he's going through," he said.
"I'll keep in touch with his mum and talk to him once the dust settles."
"If he needs to come, we'll welcome him 100 per cent. He's part of our family."
While Carney has been a serial offender, Nasser believes he may just need a little more time to "grow up".
"If Todd needs a reality check, we'll have him back whatever the situation is," he said.
"He's much too good a talent to let go without trying to help.
"If he was 30 years of age and at the end of his career, but when he's 24 ...
"Some people grow up at 24, some people grow up at 26, Todd might just be a year short.
"Todd always said it would be a long way back for him and there'd be hiccups along the way.
"After almost going to jail, we brought him up here to Atherton to help him find himself.
"He went from there to being voted the best player in the world in a year.
"It was a huge story and people probably expected him to continue with that this year.
"He's had a stumble."
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