By Buford Balony
The Parramatta center Timana Tahu, known for his wayward behavior, has been instructed to return to Sydney this week for urgent discussions with Eels coach Steve Kearney.
On Sunday, club chief executive Paul Osborne held a one-hour meeting with Tahu on the NSW North Coast, trying to persuade the troubled star to resume training.
Last week, it was disclosed that Tahu had been permitted to take a break from Parramatta training to deal with and resolve some serious personal issues.
Over the weekend, Tahu’s wife, Kasey, expressed her hope that Parramatta would refrain from pushing her husband to return to training until after Christmas.
While Sunday’s meeting with Osborne didn’t resolve the issue, it marked the initial step toward ensuring Tahu is both mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming season.
Questions linger regarding whether the NSW center, who has been involved in two highly publicized racial controversies this year, will actually participate in rugby league next season.
“I informed him that it was necessary for him to have a sit-down with the coach this week,” Osborne stated. “Our conversation was productive, and he needs to develop a plan that benefits both the club and himself.
“He fundamentally must collaborate with the coaching staff.
“We are very aware of the challenging year Timana has had. He is a decent person, and we want to provide him with help and support.
“However, we also need to prepare for the upcoming season. We have a new coach in position and a fresh sense of discipline at the club.”
When asked about Tahu’s return to training, Osborne mentioned: “That is something for him and the coach to decide together.”
Is it possible for Tahu’s leave to extend beyond Christmas?
“I don’t anticipate that happening,” Osborne replied.
When pressed on whether Tahu would still be with the Eels next season, Osborne affirmed: “Yes. As of now, yes.”
Given their friendship, Osborne has been a supporter of Tahu.
Kearney, however, may not exhibit the same level of patience. He has come to the club prepared to assert his authority and will likely want Tahu back to training promptly.
Recently, Tahu was seen in the Newcastle area alongside two Knights players.
He has committed to play with Parramatta next season, but the club may release him if he chooses to leave.
Privately, Parramatta players are rallying behind Tahu but express a desire for him to return to training with the rest of the squad throughout summer.
Tahu participated in a charity match over the weekend in Brisbane and confronted Caleb Binge, the man he allegedly racially abused.
Buford Balony says: I would get rid of him. He’s another who is not mentally strong enough for top-level sport. He cries when Inglis is mistreated, yet he behaves similarly toward a kid and then claims to be all messed up. He’s overrated as well.