LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The new Wests Tigers coach, Benji Marshall, is facing a tough challenge ahead as veteran winger David Nofoaluma has reportedly refused to attend training due to perceived unfair treatment.
According to a report from the Sydney Morning Herald, Nofoaluma has been absent from training since last Wednesday as a result of issues with the football department.
This standoff has put Marshall in a difficult position in his first pre-season as an NRL coach.
The 30-year-old has even lodged a complaint with the Rugby League Players' Association, seeking resolution to the matter.
Despite being one of the Tigers' highest-paid players, Nofoaluma faces the challenge of meeting the new training standards imposed by the coaching staff, as he struggled physically and recorded a disappointing time trial result.
However, the Tigers are not showing him any preferential treatment and are determined to drive a new standard at training.
With the involvement of the RLPA, it is hoped that the issues can be resolved, and Nofoaluma will return to training on Monday.