South Sydney coach Michael Maguire has emphatically denied man-of-the-moment Sam Burgess played concussed throughout the NRL grand final.

The NRL has queried the Rabbitohs about Burgess’ state after he fractured his cheekbone and eye socket in a head clash with Canterbury forward James Graham in the opening tackle of the decider won by Souths.

Burgess was quoted on Sky Sports Radio admitting he had barely any memory of the match, raising speculation he should have been subject to a concussion test.

However, speaking at a civic reception at Sydney’s Town Hall on Thursday where the Rabbitohs were handed the keys to the city in front of hordes of fans, Maguire maintained that his training staff followed the correct protocols in regards to Burgess’ welfare.

Maguire said concussion was never a factor.

“No not at all,” he said.

“The processes are there in place and we’ve been doing that ever since (they have) been brought in.”

The NRL has taken a firm line with concussion incidents all season, fining a number of clubs for abusing the system.

George Burgess left the field for a concussion test in the match, but was passed fit to return by Rabbitohs medical staff.

South Sydney favourite son Nathan Merritt – who wasn’t selected for the grand final – was present for a parade through the streets and the reception at Town Hall.

This was after Merritt was conspicuous in his absence from grand final day at ANZ Stadium and a fan day at Redfern on Monday.

Most Rabbitohs players were there for the festivities on Thursday, however Sam Burgess – departing for English rugby in the coming weeks – was unable to attend due to his surgery in which four plates were inserted in his face.

“One unfortunate thing is Sam isn’t with us. I spoke to Sam this morning, saw him yesterday and he’s really loving he gets to watch everything that’s happening in the background but it’s tough for us as a group – a shame that Sam hasn’t been able to be with us,” said Maguire.

“But his spirit definitely is.

“He’s good, he’ll be fine. Initial surgery went well and he’ll be back playing soon.

“It’s great (Merritt was here). He’s a big part of everything that’s gone on.

“He was actually up at an indigenous tournament playing and couldn’t get back.”

Merritt was sporting some scratches on the back of his head, while others were looking a little worse for ware after a number of days of celebrations.

Maguire said the Town Hall reception was an honour.

“It means so much to so many people,” he said.