JARRYD Hayne has labelled Parramattas latest cult hero Semi Radradra one of the best finishers in the game - and now the most exciting player to ever pull on an Eels jumper is backing his former club to make a late charge towards the NRL finals.
Hayne was spotted in the sheds enjoying a laugh with his former teammates after their come-from-behind 28-16 win over Wests Tigers on Monday night.
The NFL hopeful has made a point of catching up with his Eels teammates since returning to Australia for minor footy surgery three weeks ago.
He was also believed to have attended the clubs captains run on Sunday.
While Hayne excited fans every time he touched the ball, Radradra is quickly following suit, especially with his ability to score tries.
His double on Monday night took his personal tally to 11 tries in his past five games, and 16 overall in just 10 games.
Radradra now has eight games to reel in Nathan Blacklocks NRL record of 27 tries in one season.
Hayne played with Radradra before he finished up at the club, and told The Daily Telegraph he was hardly surprised by what he had witnessed at ANZ Stadium.
Hes been going crazy, and the way he is finishing, hes really cementing himself as one of the best finishers in the game, Hayne said.
With him one on one with a sliding defence, there arent too many wingers who can finish as good as him.
Obviously I was impressed when I was playing with him, and then again tonight (Monday). Hes been in fine form. Hes killing it.
He did a lot of work before he made his debut, and credit to the Parra staff for locking him in and getting his head around the game.
Hes a smart footballer as well. For me, when I train, I know people who get the game, and I know people who understand body language and the way you move. Hes definitely one of those players.
Parramatta were expected to struggle once Hayne packed his bags for the US and landed himself a deal with the San Francisco 49ers.
No NRL club would ever cover for the huge loss of Hayne the following season.
But Parramatta have now won three on the trot, and sit just two wins adrift of the eight going into the bye round.
Hayne said while attack was clearly not an issue for Parramatta, defence loomed as the key.
Theres never been a question about our attack, the attack speaks for itself, but the teams in the top four and top eight, its about defence, Hayne said.
That will be the key for them in the back end of the season and how well they defend we know we can score points, its about holding teams out.
Brisbane are coming first, and theyre known for their defence.
The boys have got it in them. Thats what will get them into the finals, and I hope they can make a late charge.
