Casey aims to lengthen Sydney stay
Steve Zemek | 31st May 2011
Casey McGuire has been playing at 6 for the Eels.
CASEY McGuire has been toughing it out on the selection fringes for as long as he can remember but he does not expect that to change anytime soon.
The former Kawana Dolphin admits he could be looking for a new home next year after Parramattas recent shopping spree netted the team a host of potential replacements.
The Eels recently picked up young playmakers Chris Sandow and Ben Roberts for the 2012 season, a move that could push McGuire as well as the likes of Jeff Robson, Tom Humble and Anthony Mitchell out the door.
McGuire has traditionally been seen as a utility or dummy half but seems to have found his niche at No.6 for the Eels in recent weeks, turning in another solid performance in the sides 8-6 loss to Newcastle in difficult conditions on Saturday night.
The 31-year-old said he was hoping to play one final season in the NRL top grade but did not rule out taking up an approach from Sunshine Coast Sea Eagles head coach and his close mate Adam Mogg.
I think theres always going to be competition for spots, he told The Daily from Sydney.
Ive been playing for 14 seasons and Ive always been competing with someone. I think it makes you a better team.
McGuire said he had his wife Samantha, who both hail from the Coast, hoped to return home following the end of his playing career.
He and Mogg were teammates at French-based Super League side Les Catalans and still speak regularly.
He said he was giving serious consideration to Moggs offer to play in the Intrust Super Cup but was waiting to see if the Eels came to the table with a contract extension.
ADAM and I talk a fair bit and (playing for the Sea Eagles) is something weve spoken about, he said.
At this stage Im looking for another contract with Parramatta, thats my number one goal, to have one more year in the NRL. Well see what happens, he added.
McGuire moved into the No.6 position after out-of-form five-eighth Daniel Mortimer was sent for a spell in the NSW Cup.
Since then McGuire has looked comfortable, playing a big hand in the sides thumping of the Sharks last Monday and leading the side admirably in the heartbreaking loss to the Knights on Saturday.
Im enjoying it, its my favourite position, McGuire said of play in the halves.
I havent really played there for three-and- a-half years. Im a bit rusty but I hope I can play there for a few more games.
CASEYS CLUBS
Casey McGuires career stats.
Born: Nambour, January 24, 1980
Junior Club: Kawana Dolphins
Height: 184cm
Weight: 91kg
1998: Parramatta (2 games)
2001-06: Broncos (115 games)
2007-10: Les Catalans (98 games)
2011-present: Parramatta (9 games)