FUIFUI_MOIMOI
Juniors
- Messages
- 2,448
http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,27383996-23214,00.html
Parramatta Eels targeting Brett Kimmorley and Matt Orford
By David Beniuk
July 10, 2010
Parramatta are considering an NRL swansong for Brett Kimmorley, with the veteran half ironically a chance of becoming young playmaker Daniel Mortimer's on-field tutor.
In a scenario which almost played out at Canterbury-Bankstown before Mortimer rejected an offer to stay with the Eels, Kimmorley is being discussed by the Parramatta hierarchy in the wake of current Eels Kris Keating (Canterbury-Banktown) and Feleti Mateo (Warriors) jumping ship.
Keating's decision to join the Bulldogs, who will also have halves Trent Hodkinson, Ben Barba and Ben Roberts on their books next year, has virtually ended Kimmorley's chances of playing on with the club in 2011.
The 33-year-old could slot into a coaching role but had previously indicated he wished to go around for a 17th season.
We're having a look at him, said Eels chief executive Paul Osborne.
We're just looking at what our options are.
Halves are an issue for us and he's someone that's been discussed but only been discussed, nothing further.
Osbourne said former Manly halfback Orford, currently in the UK with Bradford, was also an option.
"He might be good for a year or two to help Daniel," said Osborne. "There are some good quality leaders floating around."
Osborne conceded Mortimer, who has struggled to regain the stellar form of his debut year, would benefit from some on-field tuition.
It would be great if we got someone that could help him, Osborne said.
He's a terrific player but I think someone mature outside of him or inside him would certainly help his game.
Parramatta are close to needing a miracle run similar to last year after five losses in their last six matches.
The Eels could theoretically also offer Kimmorley an off-field role beyond 2011 after coaching consultant Andrew Johns was cut loose following the racism row with centre Timana Tahu.
However, Canberra has also emerged as a contender for Kimmorley's services as they continue their search for an experienced halfback to mentor its young backline.
Raiders chief executive Don Furner confirmed his club had expressed an interest in the 33-year-old.
"We would love to have him for a year," Furner said. "We would love to have him for his experience and to help bring Joshy (halfback Josh McCrone) through.
"In terms of helping with our young halves, it would be great."
The Raiders, who have also shown an interest in veteran Cronulla playmaker Trent Barrett, face an uphill battle to secure Kimmorley's services given his burgeoning media career in Sydney.
However, Canberra coach David Furner was a teammate of Kimmorley in the NSW side in 2000 and could use their previous relationship as leverage.
AAP