Bulldogs: Trent Barrett backing Adam Elliott to save his football career

Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett has revealed why he feels confident in picking Adam Elliott having witnessed his commitment to an alcohol rehabilitation program.

Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett is backing Adam Elliott to repay the club’s faith after the 26-year-old was selected for the club’s all-important trial match against Cronulla on Saturday.

Breaking his silence on the saga that rocked the club last week, Barrett said he held no reservations in picking Elliott having witnessed his commitment to an alcohol rehabilitation program that was instigated after the NRL star became embroiled in an off-field tryst with the partner of former teammate Michael Lichaa.

As a club, the Bulldogs had made it clear they would be guided by the rehabilitation professionals overseeing Elliott‘s alcohol rehab-program before determining whether the Canterbury forward could be deemed mentally fit to play.

Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett. Picture supplied

Barrett confirmed that he was content with picking Elliott for the pre-season hitout against the Sharks after receiving advice from the 26-year-old’s specialists and witnessing his attitude first-hand.

“I think the best thing for Adam right now, is to focus on his footy and his training – and he’s done that very well,’’ Barrett said.

“Over the last week he’s applied himself with an attitude of wanting to perform and show commitment to the club and his teammates.

“Mentally, he seems good within himself and then outside of football, he’s addressing the things that he knows he needs to address.

“I’m comfortable with where he’s at and I wouldn’t play him if that were otherwise.

“The priority Adam knows is, working through things (off the field) and by him doing that, he is realising that he‘s got an opportunity to make the most of what he has in front of his football career.’’

Adam Elliott (ball) is taking steps to deal with his issues with alcohol. Picture: AAP Image/Joel Carrett

Elliott escaped a fine or suspension from the Bulldogs for his behaviour with a clear path to recognising his issues with alcohol chosen.

He addressed his teammates over the issue last week and has committed to working hard on the training paddock ever since.

Barrett chose Elliott in the Bulldogs squad to play the Sharks which also includes fresh recruits Kyle Flanagan, Nick Cotric, Corey Waddell, Jack Hetherington and Corey Allan.

They will all wear the blue and white for the first time.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Chris Smith and Jackson Topine have been included after taking part in last week’s NRL All Stars match.

Jake Averillo (elbow), Jeremy Marshall-King (foot), Dylan Napa (knee), Raymond Faitala-Mariner (ankle), Jayden Okunbor (knee), Christian Crichton (knee), Chris Patolo (knee) and Luke Thompson (suspended) are all unavailable for the trial.

“We’ve got some guys out but we’ve trained very well, so I’m looking forward to watching how we come together in a match,’’ Barrett said.

“It’s important we get a good hitout away before the season starts.’’

Originally published as Bulldogs: Trent Barrett backing Adam Elliott to save his football career