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NRL 2021: James Roberts opens up on Wests Tigers lifeline | Summer Buzz
James Roberts has spoken publicly for the first time since signing a one-year deal with the Tigers after quitting Souths at the end of last season.
James Roberts is out to resurrect his rugby league career, with the enigmatic centre declaring himself fully fit and ready to get back to his best.
In his first interview as a Tiger, Roberts revealed he had rediscovered his love for rugby league after a private off-field battle with his mental health.
“It feels good just to be back,” said Roberts, speaking for the first time since signing a one-year deal with the Tigers after quitting Souths at the end of last season.
“I think this is one of the most excited I’ve been about playing footy.
“I’m really looking forward to the season and really happy with where I’m at.”
Walking away from a $500,000-a-year deal with South Sydney after injury and COVID-19-caused isolation affected his mental health, Roberts began training full time with the Tigers last
week and was back in full flight for the first time since he suffered a season-ending injury in July.
“The body was pretty dusty at the start but it’s coming good now,” Roberts said.
“It’s been really easy to settle in. I’ve just been trying to make sure I do my best at training and that’ll lead into what we do on the field. I’m really into it.”
The Sunday Telegraph can reveal the Tigers offered Roberts his one-year lifeline after the player personally phoned coach Michael Maguire.
Formerly together at the Rabbitohs when Roberts was an NRL upstart, the surprise phone call has reunited the pair after eight years.
“I’ve been really enjoying it so far — it’s been great to be back and under Madge again. It’s a great bunch of boys here and they’ve been really welcoming,” Roberts said.
“Madge has changed a bit since we first started but has been really good to me and the boys here.”
Jimmy the Jet says he’s ready to step up and become a leader at the club.
Roberts also hinted at becoming a leader at his new club after predicting an exciting future for his new team.
“There’s a really good group here and I think we’ll do something special,” he said.
“I’ve been trying to chime in and help some of the younger boys where I can; I’m sort of one of the older boys now which is a different feeling for me but it’s something I’m enjoying.
“It’s good for me to try and lead the way with my actions and help them with that.”
Maguire said he had been impressed with Roberts who spent three weeks with the club part-time before joining the full-time squad this week.
“He has done everything right,” Maguire said.
“And most importantly he looks happy. He has been buzzing about and getting on really well with the boys. He is happy. We all know what he can do on the field and we will give him the best opportunity to do that.”
The Tigers credited Souths with setting up a treatment plan and support system for Roberts that is still in place.
