NRL 2021: Anthony Mundine questions why Blake Ferguson was dropped 'based on one game’

It was only last week NSW coaches were considering Blake Ferguson for Origin I, now the winger has been dumped by the Eels and Anthony Mundine isn’t happy.

Anthony Mundine (inset) has come out in support of his mate Blake Ferguson.

Anthony Mundine has come out swinging at Parramatta’s controversial decision to axe Eels winger Blake Ferguson.

Ferguson, who comes off contract after this season, was dropped after several defensive issues against Souths last weekend. A right side winger, the Rabbitohs ran riot down their left edge, leaving Ferguson struggling to number up defensively.

He won’t play this weekend after being overlooked for Parramatta’s NSW Cup game against Newcastle. Ferguson, a relative and close mate of Mundine, has enjoyed a strong season before his horrible defensive display against Souths.

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Blake Ferguson has paid the price for a poor performance against the Rabbitohs.

Parramatta has sent him away to work on aspects of his game amid hopes he will reclaim his form and be back later this season for the club’s charge into the finals.

“No one gets dropped because of one game, especially after the season he’s had,” Mundine said.

“I can’t remember anyone getting dropped on one game.

“To get axed like that, on just one game, there is no substance to it. I think it’s unfair to do it to him (based) on one game. I was very surprised.

“Outside of one game, he’s probably been their best player. He is playing some of the best footy I have ever seen him play.

“I heard (Parramatta’s defensive lapses) weren’t totally his fault and he happened to be the guy (to be dropped).

“His form has been super solid and he has done it all in the game mate. Maybe they wanted to give their young guys a go, I’m not sure.

“Maybe it was also a wake-up call. The coach (Brad Arthur) obviously wants perfection for his side to be a force and you can’t have one of those (bad) days.

Anthony Mundine has spoken out in support of his mate Blake Ferguson. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Jenny Evans

“I’ve spoken to him and he’s all right. He will have to play ‘reggies’ (reserve grade) but that’s too easy for him.”

While dumped from the NRL side, the off-contract Ferguson may re-sign with Parramatta for next season although Eels officials weren’t commenting.

“We are on track with Fergo – there are no issues. There is some good genuine interest there. We are having those discussions as we speak,” Ferguson’s manager Sam Ayoub said.

“It will reaffirm that nobody gets judged on one game. They get judged on a dozen games and his first dozen games this season have been outstanding.”

Mundine added: “He wants to play on – he’s only 31. He still has plenty of good years left, three or four here and maybe then he will go overseas.

Haze Dunster has been given the chance to impress.

“Footy is all he has ever known. He brings a lot to the team, that experience and he can mentor the younger players.”

It was just last week that NSW coaches were considering naming Ferguson in the Blues side for Origin I. Instead, they opted for Penrith’s Brian To’o.

Young Haze Dunster has been named to replace Ferguson for the Knights game.

Ferguson signed a one-year deal after last season.

Originally published as NRL 2021: Anthony Mundine questions why Blake Ferguson was dropped 'based on one game’