Brad Fittler has dismissed any speculation surrounding a potential transfer for Tom Trbojevic, as the Sea Eagles scramble to find a replacement for Daly Cherry-Evans next year.
The 36-year-old announced this week that he would depart Manly at the end of the season, prompting the club to be linked with a move for Canberra’s Jamal Fogarty.
Another scenario that has been discussed involves an internal adjustment which would bring changes to the team’s spine.
“One suggestion is to have Luke Brooks play as a halfback while moving Tom Trbojevic up into five-eighth,” Billy Slater mentioned on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.
This proposal was swiftly rejected by Fittler, who believes that Manly should focus on their future by investing in some promising teenagers.
Tom Trbojevic has been considered as a potential halves option. Getty
“Tom’s a remarkable athlete, standing at six foot five,” remarked the Roosters legend.
“Can you imagine him bending over to make tackles? He currently has injury concerns – there’s no way in the world I’d place him there.”
“They’ve recently invested in two talented youngsters, Onitoni Large and Joey Walsh. I’m familiar with them; they played alongside my son and are both tough players with kicking skills.”
“Luke Brooks might feel the pressure, thinking ‘it’s my time,’ even though he faced challenges at the Tigers.”
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Andrew Johns also shared his thoughts, referencing Kalyn Ponga’s brief experience in the No.6 jersey at the Knights, which he labelled a “disaster,” urging Manly not to take a similar route with their star fullback.
The rugby league Immortal also expressed his belief that the Cherry-Evans situation wouldn’t derail the Sea Eagles, despite the surrounding external chatter.
Jake Trbojevic is one of Manly’s key leaders. NRL Images
“I don’t believe a single player can derail Manly, and that player is Jake Trbojevic,” Johns stated.
“I have every confidence that Jake will rally the team and strengthen their unity. This is Jake’s greatest leadership challenge, and I have no doubts he’ll rise to it.”
Trbojevic captained NSW in last year’s State of Origin series but has yet to assume a full-time captaincy role at the club level.
This is likely to change in 2026 or possibly even sooner, following Cherry-Evans’ decision to part ways with the Sea Eagles.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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