South Sydney release James Roberts from the final year of his playing contract on compassionate grounds.

Newcastle and Canterbury have emerged as potential homes for James Roberts after the enigmatic flyer was released by South Sydney.

Newcastle and Canterbury have emerged as potential homes for James Roberts after the enigmatic flyer was released by South Sydney. Photo: Matt King/Getty Images.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have released James Roberts from the final year of his playing contract on compassionate grounds.

The Rabbitohs issued a statement on Tuesday, with CEO Blake Solly confirming the decision was mutual between Roberts and the club.

It is understood Newcastle and Canterbury are two clubs not entertaining signing the former NSW Origin representative.

Roberts, 27, hasn’t played since suffering a pectoral injury earlier in the season.

He also checked himself into a mental health facility this year to help with personal issues reportedly related to anxiety and depression.

Roberts thanked the Rabbitohs for their support during a difficult period for him personally.

“With the support of Souths, I am working closely with professionals to get myself healthy and into a position where I can play my best footy and support my family,” Roberts said.

“Souths have been very supportive during this period, helping me to focus on the recovery from my pec injury and providing support for Anna, me and the kids.”

Rabbitohs release James Roberts from the remainder of his playing contract on compassionate grounds.

Full Release 👉 https://t.co/nKwHR5ZU9n pic.twitter.com/xz429Abnj0

— South Sydney Rabbitohs 🐰 (@SSFCRABBITOHS) November 3, 2020

Solly has backed Roberts to reignite his NRL career at another club.

“James is an elite athlete and he certainly could play at the highest levels of the game in the NRL again,” Solly said.

“We’ve held many discussions and meetings with him, his family and his representatives over recent months about a path forward.

“James and his family will always be Rabbitohs, and we will continue to support them as he looks to continue his career.”

After debuting at Souths in 2011, Roberts has made 149 NRL appearances and played three games for NSW in their triumphant 2018 State of Origin series.