Phil Gould has cast significant doubt on the rumoured transfer of Daly Cherry-Evans to the Sydney Roosters, suggesting it could ‘hinder’ the development of the club’s current playmakers.
The 36-year-old is yet to secure a contract for the upcoming season after informing Sea Eagles management he will not be extending his stay.
A number of clubs have expressed interest in the Maroons captain, but the Roosters appear to be leading the charge.
With resources available and their trademark mentality of seeking immediate success, the Bondi-based club could well be a suitable destination for Cherry-Evans, should he decide to prolong his career.
Daly Cherry-Evans plays for Manly. Getty
However, on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus, the former Roosters coach expressed his concerns about how Cherry-Evans’ arrival could affect Sam Walker and Sandon Smith.
“There’s been plenty of chatter and interest surrounding Daly Cherry-Evans from the Roosters … but I just don’t get it,” said Gould.
“They’ve got Sam Walker set to return and there’s this young talent, Sandon Smith, who I’ve admired for a long time; he’s a fantastic player who’s continuously improving. His performance on Anzac Day was exceptional, and they’ve still got Sam Walker coming back.
“If they plan on pairing Daly Cherry-Evans and Sam Walker in the same side, one of them is going to have to adjust their role. One will need to shift to five-eighth – and it likely won’t be Cherry-Evans.”
“I believe it would impede Sam Walker’s growth as a game-managing halfback while he learns from Daly Cherry-Evans. They might argue that Daly could mentor him … but I really don’t understand it.
“I fail to see why the Roosters would need Daly Cherry-Evans. It’s not about him personally; he’s a remarkable player still at the top of his game, but surely, Sandon Smith and Sam Walker should be their long-term pairing.
“The sooner they start playing together, the better. That’s my perspective.”
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Walker has been absent since late in the 2024 season, while Smith has teamed up with both Chad Townsend and Hugo Savala this year.
According to Gould, the promising development of local junior Savala at the senior level, alongside the rise of Toby Rodwell, stands the Roosters in good stead.
“Hugo is improving week by week, providing valuable support for both players,” he commented.
Hugo Savala celebrates on Anzac Day. Getty
“They’ve got some incredibly talented young halves coming through and promising players in the lower grades that I believe have great potential. I think they’re well-equipped in that regard.
“The Roosters have a tendency to pursue flashy talent; they enjoy their big-name signings. And I suspect that Daly Cherry-Evans entering the market is more about wanting to keep him away from others rather than a genuine need.
“However, I struggle to see the necessity. It’s unclear why they’d want him. Perhaps they think acquiring Daly Cherry-Evans, a proven game-winner, might enhance their chances of securing victories for their fans and sponsors.
“Though, it raises questions about the implications for the other players in the squad.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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