Williams, who rejoined Parramatta at the end of last year from Cronulla, has had his licence suspended for 12 months and a $1000 fine handed down for drink-driving with three children in his career.

The Eels have responded by banning the forward for rounds one and two of the upcoming season.

“Following discussions with the NRL Integrity Unit, and taking into consideration that Tony has undertaken a safe driving course, the Club has decided to suspend Tony for rounds 1 and 2 of the 2018 NRL Telstra Premiership,” Parramatta CEO Bernie Gurr said in a statement.

“The club views drink driving as an extremely serious offence and we have reiterated to Tony that this behaviour is unacceptable.”

Williams is hoping to rebuild his career with the Eels, where he made his NRL debut in 2008.

The 29-year-old, who has played both for Australia and in State of Origin, played just one first-grade game for the Sharks last year.

Williams has made 165 NRL appearances and won a grand final with Manly in 2011.