Parramatta Players Left in the Dark Regarding Mitchell Moses’ Return

The Parramatta Eels find themselves in a state of uncertainty regarding the fitness of their captain, Mitchell Moses, as they embark on a challenging new chapter under coach Jason Ryles.

Moses has not been included in the squad for the Eels’ opening match, continuing to struggle with a persistent foot injury that plagued much of his 2024 season.

His absence comes at a particularly unfortunate time, with the Eels set to clash against the premiership-favourite Melbourne Storm in Round 1, leaving the team uncertain about when their star halfback will return.

“We have an exceptional group of staff dedicated to pinpointing what’s ailing him,” newly recruited Zac Lomax told reporters on Wednesday.

“This has been an ongoing issue; he dealt with it last year… We’re determined to get to the bottom of it. He’s feeling let down as he was eager to start strong after missing a significant amount of footy.”

Lock-forward J’maine Hopgood, who also faced injury challenges last season, expressed that Moses’ teammates are equally in the dark about when their No.7 will be ready to return to action.

“Hopefully, in the next few days, we can get some clarity on this,” he commented.

“We’re not entirely sure of the severity – that’s up to the medical team to determine.”

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The ongoing injury to Moses has paved the way for Ronald Volkman to take on the playmaking duties for the season start, just a year after his career in the NRL seemed uncertain.

Volkman briefly joined the Dragons last year, but his contract was not registered due to a shoulder injury flagged by the club’s medical staff.

“A lot of players encounter setbacks like that, and it’s easy to give up, but Ronnie has shown tremendous perseverance,” Hopgood remarked.

“He has big shoes to fill, but all he needs to do is focus on his own game.”

Volkman is set to face a Storm team that appears ready for another championship challenge and also looking to secure their 23rd consecutive victory at the start of a season.

However, the Eels are poised to confront this daunting task head-on.

“We’re the luckiest team in the competition because we have the opportunity to be the ones to end that streak,” said Hopgood.

“It’s a bit of a David vs Goliath situation, but we’re heading down there with the hope of clinching a win.”