Advertisement
Harlequins prop Joe Marler
Head on

England prop Joe Marler says he's seeking psychological help after recent on-field incidents

He’s received a pair of two-week bans in the past two months.

ENGLAND AND HARLEQUINS prop Joe Marler is seeking psychological help following a pair of on-field incidents which have resulted in suspensions.

Marler was handed a two-week ban for calling Samson Lee “gypsy boy” during England’s 25-21 win over Wales in the Six Nations in March.

The 25-year-old’s first match back from suspension came in Quins’ Challenge Cup semi-final against Grenoble at Twickenham Stoop, and after appearing to aim a kick at the head of Grenoble’s Arnaud Heguy, Marler was handed another two-week ban.

The prop revealed he is seeing sports psychologist Jeremy Snape in order to gain an understanding of the shift in his mentality on the pitch, acknowledging things have “gone too far”.

“I was up for that Welsh game. I saw it as an opportunity to get hold of Samson and try to rough him up, as we each try to do to each other,” Marler said in a candid interview with The Sunday Times.

“I honestly did not know as I said it that what I said was out of order. I put an arm around Samson as we went off at half-time and said sorry.

“During the last Six Nations I spoke to Jeremy. I said: ‘You seem a very nice bloke, but I really do not see the point of psychology’. Then I had to ring him back and ask him if we could have a chat.

“We are seeing how it goes, then we make a decision whether I need to see someone with a clinical background as well. I know I have to make a change.

‘It was a bit dramatic from Pienaar’ – Cullen hits out at referee after Belfast defeat

Irish international Jamie Hagan makes first Super Rugby start in 10-try thriller

Your Voice
Readers Comments
20
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.