Rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns says Billy Slater would be "crazy" to call time on his career after starring in Melbourne's NRL premiership victory on Sunday.
Slater scored once and set up another in the Storm's 34-6 defeat of North Queensland to cap a remarkable return from a long-term shoulder injury earlier this season.
He was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match.
Undecided on his future, Johns said the fullback had shown the form and fitness to continue for another few seasons.
"I still think he has a lot to offer, he still has his speed," Johns said during Channel Nine's pre-game coverage.
"I hope he doesn't go out tonight. I hope he plays on.
"He's changed the way fullbacks play the game."
Now 34, Slater showed no signs of old age in an up-tempo grand final, continually catching the Cowboys out with quick restarts and probing runs.
Fully recovered from a shoulder injury that threatened to derail his career, Slater says he is yet to make a decision on whether he will play on next season.
"I didn't really know (whether I'd be back here)," Slater said after the win, breaking into tears.
"I really don't know yet (if I'll retire), but my body's feeling really good and I'll make a decision soon."
Speaking after the win, Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy said he was confident Slater would stick around.
"I'd like to think that he's going to go around again next year," he said.
"I don't think it's 100 percent yet, but I think it's very close.
"To win the Clive Churchill after what he's gone through (with injury) is simply outstanding."
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