Parramatta sign North Queensland Cowboys centre Willie Tonga on two-year deal from 2012 NRL season
Parramatta have confirmed the signing of North Queensland Cowboys centre Willie Tonga to a two-year contract from 2012.
The 28-year-old Queensland and Kangaroos representative will join
Chris Sandow, Ben Roberts, and his younger brother Esi at
Parramatta next year.
Eels chief executive Paul Osborne welcomed the homecoming of Tonga, who began his career with the
NRL club in 2002.
"
Willie Tonga is without doubt one of the best centres in the world and were excited he's decided to return home to the Eels in the prime of his career," he said.
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"When a player of Willie's calibre is impressed with what were building here, it's a strong sign to everyone we've got exciting times ahead of us.
"The re-signings of our young talent such as Jacob Loko, Taniela Lasalo, Mitch Allgood and Ryan Morgan in addition to the players joining us next year suggests our recruitment and retention strategies moving forward are on the right track."
Eels coach Stephen Kearney welcomed the signing of Tonga following a tough week for his side after they were thumped by
South Sydney in
Monday Night Football.
"Willie is a class player and were looking forward to having him here next year, Kearney said.
"His experience and strike power out wide is an asset any team would love to have, and its great to know he's committed to what we're building here.
"For the team, our focus remains on finishing the 2011 season strongly, starting with this Saturday against Manly."
