Why I Left Parramatta - Michael Gordon - Eels Blogs

Michael Gordon opens up on Parramatta Eels exit, outlines Sydney Roosters plansan hour agoMatt LogueThe Daily TelegraphSubscriber onlyIN a perfect world, Michael Gordon would still be at Parramatta.But it’s been a long, long time since anything to do with the Eels could be described as perfect.That’s why the unassuming fullback known for his loyalty will be running out with Sydney Roosters next season.“In the end I made the decision to leave,” Gordon, 33, said.“There was a chance of staying, but there was so much drama happening at the time.“I know Brad (Arthur) was keen for me to stay, but I had to look after myself. I don’t want to be the one changing clubs all the time and I’m as loyal as anyone, but I just felt like there was a really good opportunity at the Roosters.”Gordon first made contact with the Roosters through close friend and assistant coach Craig Fitzgibbon.What started as a few casual conversations with Fitzgibbon about the potential of the tricolours, soon progressed.“Then, having a chat to Trent (Robinson) and the people involved at the club, it was an easy process and one I’m very glad I made,” he said.“It’s a massive club and there is a lot of rich tradition here ... I’m just really excited to work under Trent and play alongside all the world-class players.”When it comes to stars, the Roosters are loaded with talent.From experienced campaigners such as Mitchell Pearce and Boyd Cordner through to young guns Latrell Mitchell and Connor Watson, the men from Bondi possess one of the NRL’s most formidable teams.It’s why Gordon refuses to take anything for granted in the positional stakes, even though he has played 203 top-grade games.“I’ve come here with no guarantees, no nothing,” he said.“My plan was to come here and work hard and try to earn any jersey I can.“I’ve always taken that approach and that’s no different this year.“I just want to work hard to prove that I’m worthy of being here.“But physically and mentally, I’m ready to go.“I had a nice break and got away on holidays and did a bit of training.”Gordon built a close rapport with rising star Bevan French during his one season at Parramatta.Now the veteran fullback is hoping to continue his role as ‘‘master mentor’’ at the Roosters with 19-year-old prodigy Mitchell.“He (Latrell) had a fantastic season and if I can pass anything on to him, then I’m more than happy to,” Gordon said.“But I’ll probably be going to him for a couple of tips I think. The young fellas have got all the skills these days.“I’m just excited about what lies ahead.”As for his former team, Parramatta, Gordon expects the Eels to hit back hard after last year’s season dominated by scandal.“Oh knowing Brad, I reckon if anyone mentions last year they’ll get sent out to do fitness laps,” Gordon said with a grin.“I’ve spoken to a few of them there and they are training hard already and that doesn’t surprise me. They had such a good season, I can’t see them going backwards now.’’

"I still think Semi is the best winger I've ever seen. He was the perfect mix of speed, power, and footy instincts, some of the stuff he pulled off was insane."

Replies

Kurupt November 13, 2016 at 9:03pm

Duplicate bro.
Snakey - Sack Dylan Brown November 13, 2016 at 9:04pm

Lol he's obviously a funny guy Mick.
Thooper Dooper Maltese Sparrow November 13, 2016 at 9:08pm

One of the better blokes playing NRL.
I hope his off field solid, mental cohesion rubbed off on a few of the young blokes?
French was lucky to have played along side him IMO.
Ham Sammich November 14, 2016 at 5:51am

Newtown is sharks reserves now. Wyong Roos is the roosters
Glenn Lifetime Eel November 14, 2016 at 9:57am

Imo would have only been in the team for goal kicking on the wing. Saw the writing on the wall so left.

Didn't think the rubbish going on at the Eels affected the playing group and when he left thought everything had been basically settled, board sacked and Max in charge.
Parrafanatic November 14, 2016 at 10:14am

Was only signed for 1 yr . A stop-gap contract , until our kids stepped up . No room for him now and probably wont make top team unless injuries at Rooters
Kurupt November 14, 2016 at 10:39am

Was actually told to shave the moustache, but said it would impact his blue oyster credentials too much, so he left for a club that is more accepting.
michael picklum November 14, 2016 at 11:34am

A real pro but after reading his comments, IMO he obviously was not fully committed to the team so he has done the best thing for all concerned & moved on.
CP November 14, 2016 at 11:39am

Whilst he has plenty of experience, the only thing really going for him was his goal kicking. Even that wasn't the best last year.

If you were to say we could swap Gordon for Hoffman, id take Hoffman based on age and versatility.
RazorRam0n November 14, 2016 at 11:45am

so basically he bailed when things looked tough