Roosters prefer to grow their own than buy expensive brands
By Brad Walter
May 6, 2004
"We haven't had any contact since but we are not in the market for a winger anyway and certainly not for the sort of money he can command."
Canavan said the Roosters had already committed most of the $3.25 million clubs are allowed to spend under the salary cap on long-term contracts, and were expecting a number of players in their lower grades and junior ranks to become future NRL stars.
He said coach Ricky Stuart planned for either Craig Wing or Chris Flannery, touted as Lockyer's likely replacement as Queensland five-eighth in the first Origin match, to assume Fittler's No.6 jersey next season.
"... we've got the best junior talent base in my 11 seasons at the club."
"... if you go and look too far afield you shut down opportunities for your current crop of players.
"... and we've been doing our succession planning."
"... We're happy to fill from within