Says Eels coach Arthur
Ricky Stuart’s departure, the club offered the role to Jason Taylor. They were so confident a deal would be struck that they recorded a video interview with Taylor, in which he spoke about his excitement about the role. Hayne respected Taylor – who handed him his first-grade debut when he was acting coach after Brian Smith left the club – but was one of several players pushing for Arthur. In the end, they got their wish. What became of that video footage remains one of league’s great mysteries.
The fortunes of both men have fluctuated since. Hayne left the NRL with his second Dally M medal, but hasn’t been able to produce anything resembling that form since his return. Having punted on Arthur, Parramatta have been rewarded handsomely.
Many view Hayne’s signing as a Titanic gamble. Arthur doesn’t see it that way.
‘‘I had no hesitation,’’ Arthur said. ‘‘I know exactly how he is going to be. It’s my job to get the best football out of him.’’
Hayne’s arrival will result in a player being squeezed out of the back line. However, no one will be forced out of the club. Parramatta spent only $500,000 on the crosscode star, leaving them with sufficient room to add to their roster before the March kick-off.
Their next priority is a forward and Alex Walmsley is one of several to pique their interest. The English international has impressed during the Rugby League World Cup, leading to interest from several NRL clubs. The Sun-Herald