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Harlequins Joe Marler feared his England career would suffer following his latest ban
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The prop has admitted he is seeking help from a sports psychologist to “get a grip” after being banned twice
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Marler conceded he was relieved to receive a two-week ban that will see him return for Quins’ European Challenge Cup final
Harlequins prop Joe Marler has revealed that he has been seeking the help of sports psychologist Jeremy Snape in an attempt to change his ways on the pitch and revive his England career following his latest ban.
The prop, who returned from a two-game ban and £20,000 fine for his “Gypsy boy” comment on Wales prop Samson Lee was was cited again during the European Challenge Cup semi-final against Grenoble.
Marler was seen kicking Grenoble hooker Arnaud Héguy during Harlequins’ 30-6 victory at Twickenham Stoop for which he was handed another two-week ban.
The 25-year-old has revealed those concerns for his Test career led him to seek the help of sports psychologist Jeremy Snape.
“I didn’t think I’d play again this season,” said Marler, who has had several sessions with former England cricketer turned sports psychologist Snape.
“I thought I’d be having the summer off as well, I thought I’d get a ban that would take me off the tour.
“I’m very lucky to be in a position to pull on the shirt for Quins again and even luckier that it’s a final and a chance to get hands on a trophy. Very lucky.
“I’m raring to go, chomping at the bit to get out there and prove to myself more than anything that I am capable of playing a game of rugby on the edge without being [stupid] basically.”