Jason Ryles has expressed his support for Mitchell Moses as he contemplates a return to the NSW Blues for the State of Origin opener this month. The halves selection has sparked significant discussion, with Moses in contention alongside Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai. Despite being an established player, Moses has faced challenges this season, having participated in only two matches due to a foot injury.
Ryles, addressing the media, was asked if Moses would be willing to adapt to a five-eighth position should Cleary be reinstated. His response highlighted Moses’s flexibility and commitment, indicating that he would readily accept any role to benefit the team. Ryles emphasised Moses’s value to the Eels, stating, “If I was picking the Parramatta team, he’s my seven.”
Moses’s previous performance in the Origin series was significant, as he made a mark during last year’s contest following Cleary’s injury. Ryles noted the importance of Moses’s presence in the team, suggesting his leadership and kicking skills inspire confidence among teammates. “He drives standards and strives to improve daily,” Ryles remarked, underscoring his integral role within the squad.
Moses recently contributed to Parramatta’s victory against the Wests Tigers before experiencing a bye and narrowly losing to the Sharks, leaving the team at the bottom of the NRL table. Another Eels player vying for an Origin spot is Zac Lomax, who has been sidelined since early April due to a broken foot. Ryles indicated that while the club hopes for Lomax’s return before the team selection by Laurie Daley at the end of Round 11, they won’t rush him back prematurely.
Ryles mentioned the need for caution with players recovering from injuries, reflecting on his own experiences and the importance of prioritising consistent performance at the club level before looking ahead to State of Origin.
Parramatta is set to host the Dolphins at CommBank Stadium this Thursday night, as they look to turn around their season.