NRL 2023: Roosters coach Trent Robinson says he approved James Tedesco’s break

Trent Robinson has weighed in after James Tedesco came under fire for taking a post-State of Origin holiday in Byron Bay as the Roosters crashed to another defeat.

James Tedesco missed the Roosters’ clash with Melbourne Storm. Picture: Getty Images

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has owned the decision to allow skipper James Tedesco to miss last weekend’s NRL game by holidaying on the NSW north coast.

Tedesco came under fire for taking a post-State of Origin holiday at the Elements Resort in Byron Bay rather than attending Saturday’s night loss to Melbourne at the SCG.

As club captain, Tedesco had a responsibility and obligation to join teammates at the game, according to a controversial column by News Corp journalist Phil Rothfield.

Trent Robinson says he approved the decision to give Roosters star James Tedesco a break.

Robinson has claimed he approved the decision to give Tedesco a break before returning for Saturday afternoon’s match against Gold Cast at Robina.

“It was my call to rest Teddy,” Robinson said.

“I told him to go away and come back this week. I wanted him to recover after Origin and come back ready to attack the last seven games.”

Asked if he believed the criticism aimed at Tedesco in Rothfield’s column was unwarranted, Robinson said: “I haven’t seen it so can’t comment on that.

“But it was my call and he has given all for this team and club.”