McDermott "scared to death" at prospect of life without Paul
Brian McDermott believes Henry Paul is still in top form at 34
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Monday, 18, Feb 2008 04:06
Harlequins coach Brian McDermott has revealed he is "scared to death" that veteran star Henry Paul will retire at the end of the season.
The 34-year-old was a key man for Quins as they earned a first Super League victory of the season against Hull FC on Sunday with a 24-6 win.
However, Paul's current contract expires at the end of the 2008 season and he is as yet to make a decision on his future beyond this year.
McDermott described the former New Zealand international as "unbelievable" and said he would welcome Paul's return in 2009 if he decided not to hang up his boots.
"I'm scared to death he might retire at the end of the year," the coach said.
"You tip your hat to him. We all know how skilful he is but he's changed his game so he can now do it in defence.
"You get a lot of ball carriers that come at you and you know when you tackle he'll be in there somewhere."
Paul is in his second stint with Harlequins. He has been an international in both codes of rugby, playing for the Kiwis in rugby league and then earning England honours during his switch to rugby union between 2001 and 2006.