USE THE FORCE LUKE, OF TURBO

Manly have the strike and experience across the paddock to avoid the disappointment of another missed finals series in 2024. Coach Anthony Seibold’s ability to get the best out of his players will be tested by bigmoney backrower Josh Schuster, as will his ability to turn the Sea Eagles into a feared opponent once more.

BACKS

Recruits Jaxson Paulo and Tommy Talau have helped stack Manly’s outside-back stocks. The duo will be in a season-long battle with Brad Parker to nail a spot in the backline, mostly likely on the wing, with

Reuben Garrick and Tolutau Koula locks at centre. Both Koula and winger Jason Saab are in for big seasons. If Saab can maintain the intensity he showed in bursts last year, he’ll emerge as one of the NRL’s elite flyers.

SPINE

If superstar fullback Tom Trbojevic can stay on the field, Manly possess a spine that will trouble plenty of opposition defences.

With veteran halfback Daly CherryEvans calling the shots, Luke Brooks adds a new focal point in attack which should ease pressure on Trbojevic to create opportunities.

Seibold must look to the future at hooker and the talent is at his disposal in Gordon Chan Kum Tong and

Jamie Humphreys.

FORWARDS

Manly’s engine room must step up and play to its size and strength. That’s on the likes of Toafofoa Sipley, Taniela Paseka and Haumole

Olakau’atu, who has the goods to be one of best back-rowers in the NRL. Ben Trbojevic is on course for a breakout year, while Josh Schuster remains an enigma. Jake Trbojevic is a defensive powerhouse but the impact of his runs are down. Bench forward Ethan Bullemor looks set to build on his best season yet at the club. Young lock Zac Fulton will push for selection in 2024.