There are concerns Sydney Roosters co-captain Jake Friend may have played his last game as a history of repeated concussions threatens to end his NRL career prematurely.
The 31-year-old hasn't featured for the Tricolours since round one after he suffered his third concussion in the space of just six matches.
A final decision will be made next week when Friend, who is off contract at season's end, meets with the club to make a call on his playing career, according to Nine rugby league reporter Danny Weidler.
"Crucial meeting next week for Jake Friend regarding concussions and his future," Weidler tweeted.
"Roosters concerned for one of their favourites and are already making plans for a post-football role. Friend was training during the week but it was separate from the main group."
https://twitter.com/Danny_Weidler/status/1378200335991201795
It's understood if Friend elects to call time on his career early that the club will have an off-field role ready for the veteran to take on.
The champion hooker has played 264 NRL games with the Roosters and was part of three premiership-winning squads with the club, in 2013, 2018 and 2019.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that an 18th player would be added to NRL game-day squads from round five after the ARL Commission approved a change in playing conditions.
The 18th man will be used as a concussion substitute but will only be allowed to be called upon if three of his teammates fail a head injury assessment.
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