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Parramatta's Semi Replacement plans for 2018

Posted by Mr 'BringBackFitzy' Analyst on September 19, 2017 at 8:09am
Parramatta’s Semi Radradra replacement plans for 2018 revealedNRL PREMIERSHIPNathan RyanSeptember 19, 2017 6:00amNATHAN RYAN@nath_ryanSource: FOX SPORTSCowboys shock the EelsCowboys shock the Eels2:25PARRAMATTA are considering keeping a roster spot vacant for Semi Radradra in case he returns next season.Foxsports.com.au understands the Eels have four places on their roster vacant ahead of the 2018 season and are in no hurry to fill them.While the Eels are also exploring the market both in the NRL, overseas and rival codes, a suitable replacement for Radradra is yet to present himself.It’s understood rugby convert Marika Koroibete was a consideration some months ago however, due to his asking price, the club never pursued that option.Still, Radradra returning to the NRL as soon as 2018 is a genuine possibility.The flying Fijian signed a lucrative two-year-deal with French-based rugby side Toulon earlier this year and will join the rival code effective immediately as their season has already kicked off.French rugby’s Top 14 season goes until May and Radradra’s contract is one year with an option for a second.Live stream the 2017 NRL finals throughout September on FOX SPORTS. Get your free 2-week FOXTEL NOW trial and start watching in minutes. SIGN UP NOW!Semi Radradra of the Eels is congratulated by team mates after scoring a try.Semi Radradra of the Eels is congratulated by team mates after scoring a try.Source: Getty ImagesIf desired, the flyer could return mid-season and finish the year with the Eels.“It’s disappointing for Semi to go out on those terms,” Eels coach Brad Arthur said after last Saturday’s finals loss to North Queensland.“He’s been great for our club.“He’s worked extremely hard to get himself to the football he is right now and at some stage we’d like to have him back.”Ben Ikin, Nathan Ryan and Ben Glover are joined by Cowboys GM of Football Peter Parr to discuss their finals run against the odds and why they’ll be a scary side in 2018.You can also subscribe via iTunes or for Android users, listen on the iPP Podcast Player app.The club have discussed several succession plans for Radradra throughout the year, which includes promoting from within the squad.The Eels have a host of talented youngsters who graduate from the NYC this year like Greg Leleisiuao, while the likes of Intrust Super Premiership players George Jennings and Nathan Davis are also options.Eels coach Brad Arthur gives instructions.Eels coach Brad Arthur gives instructions.Source: Getty ImagesThe vision for 2018’s left edge will become clearer in the coming weeks.In the meantime, the priority position for the club to fill ahead of next season is a forward.While Roosters prop Kane Evans joins their squad next year, the Eels are actively pursuing another middle.Managers have been given a description for the type of player the club is chasing and they must have similar physical traits to that of Evans.The Eels have plenty of low set, wrecking ball style middles with Tim Mannah, Daniel Alvaro, Suaia Matagi and Siosaia Vave on contract.With the exception of Radradra’s exit and the addition of Evans, the club’s roster will hardly change.Hess try sparks all-inHess try sparks all-in0:57They will also welcome back Bevan French and Clint Gutherson from injury in a boost for the club as they continue to develop their existing combinations.“We can legitimately build on next year,” utility Will Smith said.“The only person we’re missing is Semi and we get another forward in Kane Evans who’ll be a big help to our pack.“With the team sticking around, especially with where they’ve come to now from last year, it’s going to be good.”
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  • Wile E. Coyote September 19, 2017 at 8:19am
    Latu would be great
  • Optimistic eel September 19, 2017 at 8:45am
    Alot of talented forwards off contract 2018 crighton mannering cordner papalii paulo not really much on offer at the end of this year unless a club releases a player
  • Trent September 19, 2017 at 9:07am
    Koroibete would be perfect could move him to centre if semi comes back.
  • Eel team six September 19, 2017 at 9:34am
    No point keeping a roster spot open for him. If he intends to return in 2018, he could sign a contract right now and pass up the second year of his rugby deal which is in his favour. If he hasn't done this, then obviously he isn't intending to return next year.
    • the boss > Eel team six September 19, 2017 at 9:49am
      He would be stupid to sign before even going there who knows what might happen after going to France he might love it over there or completely hate it he has to step foot first to experience it
    • Sneaky Pete > Eel team six September 19, 2017 at 10:04am

      Agree. As much as I love Semi, BA should be looking to replace him. Would be silly to miss out on another player waiting to see if Semi returns. Look at Hayne. He was supposed to come back after his stint in NFL. 

    • Hugo > Eel team six September 19, 2017 at 10:07am
      He said he is a man of his word and has agreed to do two years there.
      That's the end of the story.
    • Eel team six > Eel team six September 19, 2017 at 11:04am
      Exactly. All the evidence points towards him not returning. No need to hold salary cap space for him.
  • Hugo September 19, 2017 at 9:49am
    Pay Koroibete close to what he wants. Massive talent and brings speed and strike power to the side. Without semi we are damn pedestrian.
    • Joshuatheeel > Hugo September 19, 2017 at 12:12pm
      What give him $750k ? And stuff up our cap like previous years!!
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