After being proclaimed the best player in the world by Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson, James Tedesco has credited his rise to the influence of the “football whisperer” Joe Wehbe.
The NSW and Australian fullback continued his stellar start to the NRL season in the Roosters’ 36-4 demolition of Brisbane at the SCG on Thursday.
Going into round four, the Tricolours No.1 was on the second line of betting – only behind Cameron Munster – for the Dally M medal.
And after running for 195 metres, busting six tackles, making one linebreak, crossing for a try and turning in a rock-solid defensive performance, his odds will only shorten.
Robinson said since defecting from the Wests Tigers 18 months ago, Tedesco had developed from a talented individual player into a senior statesman of the game.
“I thought he was the best player in rugby league last year in the world,” Robinson said.
“His development from a talent to a great man, from an individual player and then into a great leader and the breadth of his knowledge of the game, to understand all that and still deliver on class moments.”
Tedesco said he was humbled by his coach’s praise and didn’t think of himself as belonging in such a high echelon.
“Massive call. I don’t really see myself like that,” Tedesco told AAP.
“Before each week I’m just trying to do that job as best I can.
“Trust in myself. It’s been really good the last few weeks, I haven’t been over-thinking it and things are coming off.”
Tedesco said upon his arrival at Bondi Junction last year, he was guilty of over-playing his hand and getting lost in his own thoughts.
He turned to Wehbe, a confidant, mentor and mind coach who he had worked with at the Tigers, to simplify things and quieten his mind.
He meets with Wehbe every week for up to two hours and talks to him on game day.
“Last year I was trying to do too much and worry about too much and not worry about my own role,” Tedesco said.
“Joe clears my head and I just worry about my own role in the team, not try to look for things, just play what I feel.
“When I worry about who I’m coming up against or the other team, that’s when my thoughts get a bit blurred and I’m not playing my best footy.
“I have the ability, I think a lot of people have the ability, there’s a lot of external pressure and thoughts that put you off.”
Clanger McClunk
Guest
Typical Eastern Suburbs arrogance, they think, sorry, believe that they are the best. Looking at that game last night I was taken aback at the crowd size, absolutely amazing to see every single one of Easts supporters there to cheer them on. As for the best player in the world tag, Tedesco is not even the best player in his club. Cronk and Keary come before him. Nevertheless, the Bondi club is the reigning premier so I suppose they do have bragging rights. As for Brisbane, they need a fullback who can tackle plus a captain. Darius Boyd must have read from the Bryce Cartwright hymn sheet on how to tackle.
The Barry
Roar Guru
I think he was the best player in the game at all levels last year and he’s started in a similar vein this season. Desperately unlucky not to win the Dally M and the Origin player of the series. It should only be a matter of time until he gets a major award.
Paul
Roar Guru
Best player in the world, eh? As a Blues supporter, it pains me to say that Cam Smith is still the best player in the game and judging on what Cronk did when he was on the field, he wasn't far behind Smith. Tedesco's a great fullback for sure and probably the best in that position but best in the world? Comments like that means his "mind whisperer" can charge Teddy even more.
Scott Pryde
Expert
I had him as the best player in the NRL last year, and nothing so far has changed my opinion of that.
Superspud
Roar Rookie
It's hard to argue but it's a difficult comparison to make. Different players bring different things to the game. As to if he's even the best fullback in the game at the moment comes down to personal opinion.
mushi
Roar Guru
Gee he barely stopped short of dropping to one knee and pulling out a diamond ring.