South Sydney coach Michael Maguire says he isn’t concerned about Sam Burgess’ NRL judiciary record despite the Englishman copping his second suspension of the season on Wednesday.
Burgess will miss Saturday’s match with Newcastle after being found guilty of a crusher tackle on Cronulla prop Andrew Fifita in the Rabbitohs’ 14-12 loss on Monday night.
Burgess was outed earlier this season for one game for a high tackle on Sydney Roosters halfback Mitchell Pearce in the season opener but Maguire said he didn’t think the English international had a discipline problem.
“He plays the game very, very hard and it was just unfortunate the position he got into,” Maguire said on Thursday.
“We work very, very hard to make sure he is at his best every week but it was just an unfortunate one.
“He is a leader amongst us as a group and he has been consistent every week. He is obviously going to be missed but it gives someone else the opportunity to come into the side.”
Maguire said winger Nathan Merritt was not dwelling on his continued non-selection for NSW and was determined to continue his good form for the Rabbitohs.
“Nathan understands that is not under his control and he is just going to continue playing the way he has been playing,” Maguire said.
“He has been another consistent player for us and he is doing a great job and I’m sure he would do a great job if he was given the chance in that (State of Origin) arena. We are just happy to have him.
“Nathan doesn’t need too much motivation to play for Souths. He is a very passionate Souths man. He loves pulling on the jersey and crossing the white line every week.
“The motivation is about playing well every week and if a chance at Origin comes on top of that I’m sure he will take it.”