Daly Cherry-Evans has confirmed that he will leave his Sydney club in 2016 for the Gold Coast. Cherry-Evans broke the news to teammates after the defeat to Parramatta on Friday night.
“He just announced it to the boys after the game,” coach Geoff Toovey mentioned in the post-match press conference.
“It’s disappointing but at least he’s got his future settled and we can get on with playing some good football. We’re very disappointed obviously but it gives some clarity around the matter and we can move forward,” Toovey said.
Cherry-Evans was the most popular of the open trades in the NRL pre-season. Many offers were made including a lucrative $1.1 million per season with Cronulla.
The deal with the Titans is believed to be worth around $5 million over four years and solidifies the clubs future in the midst of a drug scandal and ownership bailout from the NRL.
“I am not one to get too excited about anything, I keep my emotions pretty much in check, but I think this should send a positive sign to the rugby league world really that this club does have a future and it can attract quality players and it can turn itself around,” commented Titans chief executive Graham Annesley.
“He is not from the Gold Coast but being a Queenslander is a bonus.”
The loss of Cherry-Evans frees up some cash for the Sea Eagles, who will need much of it to retain five-eight Kieran Foran. A double blow that could cripple the club, Foran has made private comments of his desire to join the Parramatta Eels.
“It will be shattering to lose both but it is a business these days and they have to look after themselves and their families. Hopefully we can keep Fozza,” commented Brett Stewart in the post-match press conference after his sides heavy first round loss to the Eels.
Manly and coach Geoff Toovey are convinced that the move will not hamper Cherry-Evans game for the remainder of the year.
“He’s very focused on his football, so I think he’ll bust his gut to really give everything to his fellow playing group and make sure he leaves with the trophy in his hand,” Toovey said.
