Teen star Joey Walsh impressed in his NRL debut for Manly, showcasing potential despite the team's loss, ready to return to reserve grade if needed.
Speculation about Joey Walsh's role in the NRL has been rife this season, but Manly's best halves prospect in a generation is more than happy to drop back to reserve grade next week if Kieran Foran requires.
Former rugby union prodigy Walsh made a strong first NRL start as the Sea Eagles fell 18-16 to premiership favourites Penrith on Sunday.
After handing him his debut from the bench last season, ex-Manly coach Anthony Seibold had been keen for the 19-year-old to develop in NSW Cup before facing the rigours of 80-minute NRL.
Interim coach Foran took the same approach during his first month in charge.