Penrith centre Brent Naden has been admitted to a private medical facility to treat issues with alcohol.
The club confirmed this afternoon that the 24-year-old had sought help in the days after the Grand Final loss to Melbourne.
“Following the 2020 NRL Grand Final, Brent Naden approached the club and disclosed a number of personal issues he wished to address,” a statement issued by the club said.
“As a result, Brent is currently undertaking a voluntary rehabilitation program in a private Sydney facility.
“Brent, his family, his management and the club kindly ask the media to respect his privacy and will be making no further comment at this time.”
The Panthers have notified the NRL.
It is understood the issue does not relate to Naden being benched during the NRL Finals and for the season decider at ANZ Stadium.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.