Trent Robinson Praises Wayne as a Remarkable Coach Following Roosters Star’s ‘Smart Decision’

There seems to be a pleasant atmosphere between the Roosters and Brandon Smith, even with the star set to join their arch-rivals.

On Wednesday, South Sydney officially announced that Smith would be signing with the club for a two-year term.

The contract is set to commence on November 1, but there’s been a flurry of speculation suggesting Smith could be released ahead of time to join the Bunnies this season.

“It’s not exactly my call,” Smith shared during an appearance on The Bye Round podcast on Wednesday.

“I’m content at the Roosters for this year and plan to honour my contract.”

“Robbo [Roosters coach Trent Robinson] has been actively seeking my input during training and there’s been no negativity at the club … however, the decision is not really mine to make.”

“If the Roosters think it’s best to let me go and replace me with a player who offers more value, that’s a discussion they’d need to have with me.”

“For now, if they want me here, I’ll remain. At present, I’m pleased where I am.”

Smith commented that the transfer had been “in the works for some time” and Robinson echoed this sentiment when he met with the media on Thursday.

Currently, Smith is recovering from a significant knee injury, with expectations for his return likely to be in the latter half of the season.

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and for free on Nine and 9Now.

The Roosters may opt to release him before June 30 if they believe another player could more effectively utilise the roster spot in their finals push.

Robinson refrained from confirming whether Smith could depart the Tricolours sooner than expected, but he firmly stated that the relationship between the player and the club was entirely positive.

“It’s been pretty straightforward since November,” Robinson stated.

“We’ve engaged in those discussions; Brandon has been a part of them.”

“This is a positive step for him. Wayne (Bennett) is undoubtedly an outstanding coach, and he’ll continue to reside in an area he loves, fulfilling a role they are keen to fill.”

“I realise there’s significant rivalry between the clubs, but Brandon has been very transparent, and we’ve both been upfront, making this a smooth transition.”

The Roosters and Rabbitohs share a long-standing history of contentious player transfers, originating from the legendary Ron Coote’s move in 1972.

More recently, figures like Angus Crichton, Latrell Mitchell, and Joseph Suaalii have contributed their own segments to this ongoing saga.

It appears that the Smith transfer may only be a minor chapter in this rivalry’s book.