Signing of Green may affect Hingano
Warriors chief executive Cameron George insists standoff Ata Hingano remains a big part of their future, despite signing experienced fiveeighth Blake Green for three years.
Green’s signature was confirmed yesterday after the 205-game veteran was granted a release by the Manly Sea Eagles.
The 31-year-old, who is likely to start in the halves alongside Shaun Johnson next season, brings muchneeded experience and depth to the Warriors’ playmaking stocks.
But Hingano accepted a threeyear contract extension in June. The 20-year-old Tongan international attracted interest from several clubs at the time and may be tempted to reconsider his future.
After meeting Hingano’s manager, George played down that scenario and said Blake’s recruitment had not altered the club’s opinion of the Tongan star.
‘‘We met with his manager this morning and had a really good discussion. We’ll have a chat with Ata at the right time when he’s finished with his role with Tonga,’’ George said.
‘‘We believe Ata’s got a great future with the club and he will benefit greatly playing alongside Blake Green. No one’s guaranteed their spots and the competition will certainly be beneficial to the club.’’
Asked if he would consider releasing Hingano if a request came through, George said: ‘‘There hasn’t been a request put forward. For me, Ata is a big part of our future.’’
After making his NRL debut at the end of the 2016 campaign, Hingano showed plenty of promise in his 13 appearances last season.
He has since played a key role for Tonga at the World Cup, steering the star-studded side around the park during their run into the semifinals on Saturday.
Tongan team-mate Sio Siua Taukeiaho certainly backs him.
‘‘He’s the youngest bloke in the team but all the big boys respect him,’’ he said. ‘‘I think he deserves a start wherever he goes.’’