Roosters player Angus Crichton recently expressed uncertainty about the potential fit of veteran halfback Daly Cherry-Evans in their squad. Crichton hopes that Cherry-Evans’s arrival won’t undermine the opportunities for emerging talent within the team. His comments resonate with former player Brandon Smith’s earlier remarks, which reportedly led to tension with club officials before his mid-season exit.
Cherry-Evans is contemplating a move to either the Roosters or the Dolphins after parting ways with Manly, where he has spent a significant portion of his career. As he approaches the age of 37 by the start of the 2026 season, questions arise regarding his role in a team that already has promising players, including long-term signing Sam Walker and up-and-coming talents Sandon Smith and Hugo Savala, who have excelled this season during Walker’s recovery from an ACL injury.
Crichton shared his thoughts during a segment on Nine’s “100% Footy”, where he candidly stated, “I don’t know, man,” when asked about Cherry-Evans’s potential position in the team. “I haven’t heard anything,” he added, reaffirming the importance of retaining young players like Smith and Savala, who have significantly contributed to the team’s performance.
The Roosters have experienced a tumultuous off-season, losing several high-profile players, which has led many experts to predict a lower finish in the current season. Nonetheless, they surprised critics by managing to secure five wins and remaining competitive, currently standing at 12th place. Crichton praised the younger squad members, highlighting their impressive contributions alongside seasoned players.
Notably, Crichton also made a light-hearted jab at fellow panellist Phil Gould about the Roosters’ salary cap situation, stating, “Somehow we still don’t have any cash, and you guys keep signing everyone,” prompting laughter from the rest of the panel. Gould responded with a humorous insistence that he was not managing their finances, adding to the light mood of the discussion.
As the Roosters navigate the future, Crichton’s focus remains on the development and success of their young players, while he cautiously welcomes potential new additions like Cherry-Evans, weighing the balance between experience and nurturing home-grown talent.