Joey Walsh could replace Daly Cherry-Evans as Manly's playmaker, ready for immediate action.
Daly Cherry-Evans' potential successor has indicated that he is prepared to step into the NRL spotlight immediately if Manly Sea Eagles coach Anthony Seibold seeks a preview of the team's future. Rookie playmaker Joey Walsh has made a strong impression in his inaugural season with the NSW Cup after transitioning from rugby union last summer, where he played 13 matches against more experienced competitors.
Recently, Walsh, a former Australian schoolboy rugby star, contributed to Manly's 30-12 victory over Newcastle, a match featuring prominent players like Tyson Gamble and Jackson Hastings. Although Seibold is focused on the present as the team strives to secure a top-eight position, there are hints that the departing Daly Cherry-Evans may eventually give way to Walsh.
Next season, Jamal Fogarty from Canberra will fill Cherry-Evans' role, but if Manly's prospects for finals glory dim, Seibold might consider introducing Walsh into the NRL sooner. Walsh's agent, Cameron Day, revealed that the 19-year-old has been closely training with Cherry-Evans and five-eighth Luke Brooks this year and stands ready to seize any opportunity presented to him.