Injured League player Alex McKinnon has received a welcome boost.

A new contract and the offer of a job for life.

Joseph Cooney reports.

TRANSCRIPT

The wheelchair-bound second rower has left his hospital bed.

But today, good news!

The Knights announcing they’ll be extending McKinnon’s playing contract beyond October.

The NRL also has offered Alex a job for life, as part of a five point plan to support him throughout his recovery.

In the AFL, Essendon is set to regain Brendon Goddard and Heath Hocking for Saturday’s crunch round seven clash with Western Bulldogs.

After three straight losses, it’s backs against the wall stuff for the Bombers, who are also considering long-term absentee, Tom Bellchambers.

Mark Thompson, Essendon coach: “We’re gonna watch him train today, and we’ll work out whether he’s… he’ll probably play his way into the team, or out of the team.”

And, Sonny Bill Williams is denying reports he married his girlfriend in a secret ceremony.

Sonny Bill Williams: “Welcome back, Sonny. How was the honeymoon? It wasn’t a honeymoon, mate. Second honeymoon? Excuse me, guys.”

Williams was holidaying in Bali, after making himself unavailable for Friday’s Anzac Test.

Joseph Cooney, QUT News.