McCarthy reveals NRL injury nightmare
Tyrone McCarthy has spoken of his frustrating injury battles that have kept him from making his NRL debut for St George Illawarra.
McCarthy, who joined the NRL club from Hull KR at the end of 2015, tore his hamstring at Christmas and has faced other setbacks on his road back to full fitness. He has yet to play a first-grade game for the Dragons.
“Since returning to play I have aggravated my tendon so there’s a bit a fluid still hanging around,” the forward told Love Rugby League.
“I have been trying to play through it last couple of weeks but not been able to run as freely as hoped so the plan is to let it settle and be back playing two to three weeks.
“It’s been really frustrating but injuries are part of the game, so I just need to remain positive and make sure I’m doing everything I can to make that happen.”
McCarthy has joined fellow Englishmen Mike Cooper and Gareth Widdop at the Drgaons.
St George Illawarra currently sit in 13th place on the NRL ladder with three wins from seven games.
The Red V has come under fire for a misfiring attack that has struggled to score tries in 2016.
“We’re pretty positive with where we are heading, there a great work ethic here and determination to succeed,” McCarthy said.
“So after the tough opening draw were confident of putting a few more wins together.”
An Irish international who has had spells at Warrington, Wakefield and the Robins, McCarthy also has previous Australian experience after spending 2014 with Queensland Cup side Northern Pride.
The 27-year old said he is enjoying life in Wollongong.
“The transition has been really good apart the injuries,” he said.
“I’m enjoying the challenge so far and feel comfortable here.”
McCarthy captained Hull KR last year and has been following the club’s plight this season.
He believes the Robins can turn their season around.
“It’s tough to see as I know every one involved works so hard there,” he said.
“I know they will be disappointed more than anyone else.
“They have had a rough run with injuries but I think they will come through this tough spell, they have too many quality players there not too.
“The positive is the younger boys will benefit from the experience so the future is still bright for the club.”