The Roosters would only entertain the thought of securing wayward star Blake Ferguson if he went through a successful bush footy sabbatical like their former five-eighth Todd Carney.

Having sacked Ferguson on Friday afternoon, the Raiders are firm in their belief the 23-year-old is headed to the Roosters next season. The NRL faces a major test over whether it registers his contract.

Lifeline: Blake Ferguson. Credit:Brendan Esposito

NRL Integrity Unit chief operating officer Jim Doyle said Ferguson's recent behaviour would be reviewed before he could return to competition. ''Following's Canberra's announcement, Blake Ferguson's registration has lapsed and he is no longer a registered NRL player,'' Doyle said. ''In light of the club's action and the circumstances that exist involving the player, it is unlikely the NRL will consider registering any new contract without first undertaking a full review of his situation.'' There has been widespread speculation Ferguson and his new manager, Sam Ayoub, met Roosters chairman Nick Politis during the week, but club sources deny any meeting has taken place. Roosters officials were impressed with what they saw from Ferguson when he played their side in August in his last match.

They are wary, though, of his baggage. Indecent assault charges still hang over his head from a drunken night with former teammate Josh Dugan after their selection for NSW for Origin II. Should they be become interested, the Roosters would want Ferguson to follow the lead of fellow dumped Raider Carney, who spent a year playing bush football in north Queensland before being allowed to return to the NRL with the Roosters. Carney then won the Dally M and steered the Roosters to the grand final against St George Illawarra.