(Note - This is only speculation based off the facts...)
Just read an interesting article about former Newcastle halfback Scott Dureau. He's been playing for Super League team Catalan Dragons (based in France) for the last 5 years. He's decided to bring his family back home to Australia and has plans to return to the NRL.
He was named in the Super League dream team in 2011 and 2012 and has scored 694 points in 80 games over there. He only turns 29 this month. I would guess he's at his peak as a player now, or only slightly past it. I'm sure he wouldn't be too expensive, having been out of the NRL for so long.
So that's Foran at 5/8th, Dureau as halfback - which leaves Norman as fullback and Michael Gordon as the solid and experienced right side center or winger! There was recent discussion about how out of place Gordon was on the Sharks left wing, in their most recent game - because he prefers the right side (with his step and how he carries the ball). That's what made me think of this - and we have Semi and Taka on the left side. All the pieces of the puzzle are slotting into place... we would just need to pair someone with Gordon on the right side. Options include Hoppa (assuming his contract extension is sorted), Faraimo, Morgan or even Folau.
There was discussion earlier in the year of Steve Sharp going to the UK to find us a new halfback. This is where all the rumors of Carney came about - who plays for THE CATALAN DRAGONS.... the same team!!!!! Coincidence? Maybe not...... it seems like the perfect plan to me! Also take note that he hasn't mentioned which club he'll return to. Here's what we might look like next year:
1. Corey Norman
2. Michael Gordon
3. Will Hopoate
4. Brad Takairangi
5. Semi Radradra
6. Kieran Foran
7. Scott Dureau
.................................................................................................................................
Former Newcastle halfback Scott Dureau is headed back to the NRL after announcing his departure from English Super League club the Catalans Dragons.
The former Knights player, who turns 29 this month, has scored 694 points in 80 Super League appearances for the French club and was named in the league's Dream Team in 2011 and 2012.
"After five years here, I've made a decision for me and my family to return home," Dureau said on Thursday.
"It's been a great five years with the Dragons but I think the time his right to go back to Australia and to the NRL.
"It has been a great experience in France and it is something I will never forget.
"I have made a lot great memories and I've made some lifelong friends."
Catalans coach Laurent Frayssinous thanked Dureau for his contribution, saying he had been a pleasure to coach.
"He has always given his best to help the club, both on and off the field," Frayssinous said.
"It is no coincidence that the team has reached the end-of-season play-offs in every season since he arrived at the club."
Link: http://www.smh.com.au//breaking-news-sport/dureau-to-return-to-nrl-20150710-3z1lk.html
Replies
Inb4 the "he's too young" meme.
Hahaha... come on, he's only 29! If anything, he's too young...
man i hate that guys face
Not sure if the eels spoke to him but take it as fact this won't be happening.
I think it'll be bargain signing for whichever team gets him - and there's not that many teams who might be looking for a new halfback...
Pass.
Rather someone younger (AND with more ability), or even a talented rookie.
Enough with the Casey McGuire-esque discards already....