PARRAMATTA will target another three top-line players to complement the prize signature of Mark Riddell, who yesterday announced he would move to the Eels for the next three seasons.
Coach Brian Smith last night rated luring Riddell a career highlight, with the robust hooker acquired to rejuvenate the once-feared Parramatta forward pack.
The loss of Riddell was just one of two major body blows to the Dragons, who also received news yesterday that prop Brent Kite had signed a four-year deal with Manly worth $1.3million.
Riddell's arrival at Parramatta will see current hooker John Morris, the Eels' prize signing for the 2003 season, pushed to five-eighth for 2005 as Parramatta look to re-emerge as a title threat.
"I see Mark joining us as one of the best and biggest moments of my career because I think he's got so much to offer to our team and our club," Smith said.
"Everybody knows what Mark brings to the table for us, everybody knows Mark's flamboyant and extroverted style. He's a guy with lots of strings to his bow."
The move is bound to polarise St George Illawarra fans, where Riddell has developed into a cult figure since making his debut at the start of 2001.
Riddell admitted the decision to turn his back on the Dragons was a tough one, but remained positive about a fresh start with Parramatta.
"It's very professional here. I can see the club going forward," Riddell said.
"I'm looking forward to working with Brian [Smith]. I've got a few mates over here who I spoke to before I made my decision and I'm very happy with the decision I've made.
"With the addition of a few more players there are going to be plenty of good times ahead with the club."
The Eels are also searching for outside backs and front-rowers for next season and will be active in the player market after June 30.
"For the first time since I've been at the club we've actually got some space in our salary cap to bring some new blood in," Smith said.
Riddell said the nucleus of the Parramatta team impressed him and played a major role in convincing him to switch clubs.
He appealed to Dragons fans to understand that the joint venture was under extreme pressure because of salary cap restraints. "If you look at their side they just can't keep everyone. There's just too many stars in the team. That's what the salary cap is there for," Riddell said.
Dragons chief executive Peter Doust conceded the club was bitterly disappointed to lose Riddell and Kite. But he said they expected to retain prop Jason Ryles and fullback Ben Hornby.
The Daily Telegraph
