Grothe keen to stay at Eels
By Ben Horne AAP Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:13:45
Former NSW and Australian winger Eric Grothe says "every game is a job interview" for him in the NRL this year, as he strives to get another deal at the Eels.
The off-contract Grothe isn't ruling anything out. He's open to moving to the English Super League, but his first and second choices are staying at the Eels or at the very least, in the NRL.
Parramatta are also trying to finalise the future of fellow wingman, Luke Burt beyond this year, who is just two matches away from making his 200th appearance for the club.
"It would be good to have a similar year to last year and when you're playing good footy everything off the field happens for you," Grothe said.
"I guess every game is a job interview for me now so I just want to get in there and rip in and have it wrapped up by halfway through the season.
"Perfect world would be to get another contract with Parra ... I love the club.
"I can't imagine leaving, but if I have to I have to. I'd like to play in the NRL again but in saying that I'm happy for a new experience.
"I could see myself in England in a couple of years."
First job for Grothe this year will be ensuring his place in the top grade.
There's a game of musical chairs being played by the Parramatta Eels outside backs, with four quality players trying to fit into three blue and gold jerseys.
With Jarryd Hayne and dual-international, Timana Tahu locked into backline spots, the remaining positions will be fiercely contested.
Grothe and Krisnan Inu are both Test representatives. Burt has scored more career points than anyone in the NRL this year and Joel Reddy has established himself as one of the game's most consistent centres, yet one of these stars looks destined to start the season in the NSW Cup.
Provided all are fit and healthy, Eels coach Daniel Anderson has quite the selection headache awaiting him come round one.
Although it's a good conundrum for the club to have, it won't be easy for a player, who would be a certain starter in any other team, to turn out in reserve grade.
"It's a tough gig, especially now Timana is back and everyone wants to be playing," Kiwi back Krisnan Inu told AAP.
"It's tough for whoever misses out but it's just one of those things the coaches have to deal with.
"Hopefully the players don't think too much of it, it's just something you have to deal with in footy."
Inu gets a chance to impress at centre in Parramatta's trial match against the Dragons in Perth on Sunday, while Reddy, Grothe and Burt stay behind in Sydney.
Centre Reddy, who established a strong combination with Grothe on Parramatta's right side last year, said nothing but top form will suffice on the Eels' flanks this year.
"Whoever is going to be playing for Parramatta this year will have to be playing well to keep their spot," Reddy said.
