Former NRL star Anthony Minichiello ‘wouldn’t cut it’ in modern league

Former NRL star Anthony Minichiello has said he wouldn’t make the cut in the modern game. Find out why

He was once considered the best player in rugby league.

Now, eight years after hanging up the boots former Sydney Roosters star Anthony Minichiello has made the absurd claim that he wouldn’t cut it in the modern game.

“The game has definitely changed,” he said.

“A lot of the players are much fitter, faster, stronger than ever before.

“I would be way too light to play these days. They are super athletes, which is apparent when you watch them play.”

Pictured at the Entertainment Quarter at Moore Park in Sydney is former Roosters NRL player Anthony Minichiello. Picture: Richard Dobson

The former Sydney Roosters star retired from NRL nearly eight years ago. Picture Gregg Porteous

At 182 cm and 91kg, Minichiello forged a stellar career that included representing his state and country, and scoring the most tries in Roosters history.

And the Lexus ambassador, 41, has some simple advice for the next generation of stars.

“Just be true to yourself, it’s simple,” he said.

“I think in any industry there are always people that make mistakes, but the NRL is a very popular sport and players need to understand that their actions have consequences.

“I hope everyone learns from these mistakes to become better people.”

Minichiello recently celebrated 10 years with wife Terry Biviano. Pictured daughter Azura.

Anthony Minichiello in action for the Roosters in 2004. Picture: Craig Wilson

The Liverpool-native has been focused on family and fitness since retiring from the league and recently celebrated his 10th wedding anniversary with his wife, shoe designer, Terry Biviano.

“It really has flown by,” he said.

“The dynamic has changed a bit, in our first year of marriage it was just us two, living life. “Now we have an eight-year-old daughter (Azura) that we love and adore.

“She certainly is the best thing that has happened to us, she keeps us on our toes but is the best fun.”

Originally published as Former NRL star Anthony Minichiello ‘wouldn’t cut it’ in modern league