7th Tackle: Roosters' concern for Ferguson

Blake Ferguson’s redemption at Bondi is no doubt a feel good story – but the hard work and sacrifices must continue for him to be guaranteed a happy ending.

Our sources in the Eastern Suburbs have reported some concerns among Roosters officials over Ferguson’s recent lifestyle choices – chiefly among them gambling.

MORE 7TH TACKLE
* The best solution yet for concussion issue
* How the Cowboys hold on to so many stars
* Townsend ups the ante as Graham negotiations stall
* Norman's big effort to reel in Segeyaro
* Moses in control at the Tigers
* Tigers faithful sides with Farah

His current issues aren’t at the same level of seriousness as those that saw him sit-out 2014 – and the Roosters are doing all they can to ensure things never reach that point again.

Although the father-of-two has been well behaved since joining the Roosters, another slip-up would prove disastrous to his career prospects at NRL Central.

The club has invested extraordinary time and resources into Ferguson’s off-field recovery – and even sent him to the US for specialist treatment on a foot injury in 2015.

Ferguson is also off contract at present, making this a delicate time to be talking.

We expect the Roosters to standby their man and extend his stay another two years. But Ferguson needs to toe the line.

At his best, Ferguson is one of the one of the game’s most potent match-winner – as demonstrated by his effort to win last year’s Harry Sunderland Medal as Australia’s best player on the Four Nations Tour.