Minichiello's career in the balance.

[Kimlo]

Anthony Minichiello's footballing career hangs in the balance after it was revealed the former Test fullback has a bulging disk in his neck which is impinging on his spine.

The Roosters today received results of a scan undertaken on Thursday which revealed the extent of the problem, and in a dramatic scene, Minichiello had to be dragged from the training paddock mid-session with doctors fearing permanent spinal damage.

Minichiello will see his spinal specialist on Saturday.

The Roosters are yet to officially rule their fullback out of Sunday's clash with the Knights at EnergyAustralia Stadium - but it is unlikely he will play.

It's believed the injury is not related to the lower back problems which have plagued Minichiello throughout the past three seasons.

 

[Kimlo]

He's the only rooster play I like, I'm so sad :( Poor bloke was golden booth in 2005.

 

[Jeza23]

It would be very unfortunate for Mini, the roosters and the game in general because he holds himself very well off the field and he is very good on it.

Would be sad to see him retire at such and early age!

 

[Fozz]

Yeah, I hate him because he was so good for NSW and the Rorters. But very exciting to watch IMO.

 

[ningnangnong]

He is an awesome player.

One of the best in the last ten years IMO.

Terrible news for him though, hopefully he can recover.

Don't want to see him in a N.S.W jersey anytime soon though!

 

[Broncos08]

Awesome player.

He is the player I fear the most when the Broncos or Qld play against him.

 

[QUEENSLANDER]

Always broke the first tackle every time he had the ball, even in origin. Great, great player. Hopefully this isnt the end for him, but sounds like it could be

 

[mick]

Absolutely agree with the above sentiments. Injuries are SUCH a curse to so many good players, and IMO Mini could've well gone on to be one of the greats.

V. sad for the game, and for the man himself. Absolutely inspiring to watch on his day. His footwork and strength were second to none when he was at his peak, and his positional play in defence was also brilliant. It's only through his injuries that anyone else has worn the #1 jersey for NSW and Australia.

 

[Kaz]

That's the same injury Tallis, Brown & Johns had.

 

[Jeza23]

Just heard on 2GB Sydney that he Mini is out for 4-6 weeks, saw the specialist this morning and was told it wasnt as bad as first thought!

This is a good sign I guess, but Mini needs to be very careful if and when he comes back.

 

[rnabokov]

A real gentleman, great FB and a credit to the game. Hope he makes it back and finishes a great career on a high note.

 

[mick]

Let's not let all this good will detract from his crowning moment, though.

icon_thumbs_u

 

[Jeza23]

Let's not let all this good will detract from his crowning moment, though.

icon_thumbs_u

Woodstock! Yucky [icon_lol1. [eusa_naugh

Is that Mason in the middle? Sure looks like him

 

[mick]

It sure is! Hah, I think that was from around 2004...

 

[Je$ter]

Awesome fullback when at the top of his game. His speed and power is second to none. Makes Brett Stewart look super average.

 

[Kaz]

Each time I see that photo, I want to know what is in the plastic bag Minichiello is holding.

 

[wally]

Just on the news...

The bulging disk is pressing against his spinal column, but he won't require surgery. He'll have treatment and be on he sidelines for 4-6 news.

Overall good news for Mini.