Jared Waerea-Hargreaves' tumultuous NRL career has taken another turn after a foul-mouthed spray towards referee Gerard Sutton on Saturday night.
The exchange saw the Roosters veteran vent his frustration at being penalised late in the second half of his side’s loss to the Panthers in Round 11.
The incident has ignited debate on social media, prompting SENZ Breakfast hosts Tony Kemp and Israel Dagg to have their say as former players.
“I think when you’re playing collision sport, it’s very hard to say something that isn't really tainted with a bit of aggression, like the swear words in the heat of the moment,” Kemp said.
“I think it’s just part and parcel of the environment that you surround yourself in.
“For me personally, I have no problem with it, as long as it’s not targeted.
“So, there’s a difference with what he said as far as bias goes. That's him saying that the referee is being biased but calling him a cheat is something totally different.
“I just think about someone like a Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and a person that’s in a collision … you should be able to get up and say (it) because you’re not thinking about being polite, you’re thinking that hurt.”
While Kemp’s sentiments were widely backed by Dagg, the former All Black feels that elite athletes need to be more cautious with their language as they are role models for the younger generations of players and fans.
“In the heat of the moment I can understand his frustration,” Dagg said.
“I’ve been there, I've done it. For me it’s … would you say it in front of your mum?
“You do swear, but I just think as athletes, we’re on a platform and we need to try and set good examples.
“The kids have kind of shied away from the old days of chivalry and respecting our elders (so) I think there has got to be a benchmark.
“I understand frustration, I've done it, but I just think as role models we’ve got to try and be better.”
Waerea-Hargreaves will return to the field this weekend as the Roosters take on the Cronulla Sharks at PointsBet Stadium.