Trent Robinson has offered a staunch defence of star fullback James Tedesco, despite the continued push for Joey Manu to move into the role permanently at the Roosters.
The 31-year-old, who missed the side’s round six win over the Knights due to concussion, has been donning the No.1 jumper at Bondi for over half a decade, winning two premierships in the red, white and blue.
Tedesco has also had a stranglehold on the fullback spot for NSW and Australia during that time period, lifting multiple State of Origin shields and a World Cup trophy in 2022.
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Speaking prior to the Tricolours’ match with the Storm, the premiership-winning coach was quizzed on what Tedesco brings to the team that differs from Manu and doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.
“I don’t think I’ll answer that question, to be honest,” Robinson said.
“I’m not talking SuperCoach at a media conference. If they don’t see what Teddy brings, then I’m not the right guy answer it.
“Teddy is an exceptional fullback … it’s just naive to ask that question really.
“What I think about an Australian and NSW and a premiership-winning fullback and what he brings to the game – watch the game.”
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Manu was enormous against Newcastle last week, running for a record 347 metres, breaking 11 tackles and producing a try assist at fullback.
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However, with Tedesco back in the frame for selection and Manu officially signing on the dotted line for a move to Japanese rugby union, the chances of Robinson making it a permanent change for the remainder of 2024 appears very unlikely.
The coach was also asked on what Manu’s impending departure will mean for the Chooks and whether he expects to see the Kiwi superstar back in the future.
“It’s a huge loss for us and the game,” Robinson said.
“It was done in the right way, it was really transparent – but you can’t downplay losing Joey Manu. There’s not someone that is going to walk in and do that role.
“I’m not sure whether he will be back here or not – I’d like him to be, this is his home. There’s definitely nothing there about him returning.
“It’s not exactly what we wanted, but it was done in the right way and we respect that.”
