Sea Eagles sign Chris Bailey for 3 Seasons
22/05/2008 - By Manly Sea Eagles
The Manly Sea Eagles today won the keen contest to sign outstanding young Newcastle Knights five eighth Chris Bailey for three seasons from 2009.
Bailey has been in great form for the opening few months of the premiership and was earmarked as a priority signature by the Sea Eagles who have been keen on signing him for some time.
The 24 year old Inverell junior scored three tries in Newcastle's 38-26 loss to Wests Tigers in Newcastle last Sunday.
Bailey debuted for Newcastle in 2006 and had played 13 games in the NRL prior to the 2007 season. His elder brother Phil Bailey formerly played with Manly and the Northern Eagles before switching to the Cronulla Sharks and Wigan in the English Super League.
"I'm delighted my future beyond this season is now settled. The Knights have been great to me and they will get everything I have for the rest of the season. It was a tough decision to make but the chance to play at Manly where my brother had such wonderful success was a big influence as was the entire set up and professionalism.
"But for now I'm a Knight and I am looking forward to the continuation of the success we have had so far in the premiership," Bailey said.
Bailey's manager Wayne Beavis said the specialist five eighth was sought after by four other clubs as well as the Knights.
Manly coach Des Hasler said he regarded Bailey as an outstanding player.
"He is a talent we have had our eye on for some time. It hasn't been a surprise to us to see the football he has been playing lately.
"We wish him well for the rest of the season with the Knights and look forward to him joining us next season," Hasler said.
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