Phil Gould is holding out hope that the “terrible” health news shared by NRL legend Nathan Merritt this week is not as dire as it seems, as the rugby league community comes together to support the Rabbitohs icon.
Last month, the 42-year-old Merritt revealed he is battling stage four cancer affecting his oesophagus and liver.
The former NSW Blues winger told The Sydney Morning Herald this week that he believes he has around a year or less to live.
Nathan Merritt announces his retirement from rugby league in 2014. Fairfax Media via Getty Images
The Rabbitohs have invited Merritt to ring the club’s Legacy Bell prior to their match against the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium this Friday.
This may likely be the last NRL game he attends.
“The doctors have given me about 12 months to live, and the chemotherapy is aimed at extending my life,” he shared with the Herald.
“I’m experiencing some pain, but I’m managing better than some others have with this.”
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Merritt mentioned he was unable to be present at South Sydney’s recent game against the Roosters when his friend Alex Johnston broke the tryscoring record because “the chemotherapy has drained most of my energy.”
He has reported losing approximately 22 kilograms since commencing treatment.
His ultimate wish is to witness his cherished Rabbitohs clinch their first premiership since 2014.
“Seeing Souths win another title would be an incredible way to conclude my journey,” Merritt expressed this week.
Nathan Merritt displaying his skills for the Rabbitohs.
“Souths have what it takes to achieve it. I would be thrilled to see them reach another grand final. As a supporter of the club, it would be a truly memorable moment.”
While Gould will be supporting his Bulldogs this Good Friday, he intends to join thousands of rugby league fans in honouring Merritt prior to the match.
“It’s heartbreaking,” Gould shared on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.
“At various stages in our lives, we all face health challenges like this.
“It’s a tragic situation, especially for someone so young.
“Nathan is a remarkable person and an exceptional athlete. This news is genuinely devastating.
“I’m sure South Sydney will draw inspiration from him this weekend. We wish Nathan and his family all the best, and I hope the prognosis is not as grave as suspected, allowing for a possible recovery.”
Throughout his career, Merritt played a total of 237 NRL games, predominantly for the Rabbitohs, as well as one Origin game for the Blues and three appearances for the Indigenous All Stars.
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