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Important SN update for Southland'They don't need another half': Mass confusion over Newcastle's recruitment
Charles Goodsir • July 1st, 2025 1:46 pm
The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio has criticised the Newcastle Knights for their recruitment strategy following the acquisition of another playmaker.
The Knights have been criticised in recent seasons for their playmaker merry-go-round as coach Adam O’Brien has failed to settle on a halves combination. Instead, multiple combinations of Tyson Gamble, Jack Cogger, Phoenix Crossland, Fletcher Sharpe, Jackson Hastings and more have found themselves wearing the six or seven jersey.
Another playmaker in Jake Arthur, son of former Parramatta Eels coach Brad, has been signed to the Knights from Manly. Riccio, as well as SEN’s Andrew Voss, believe it is a complete misstep from the struggling club.
“Why do Newcastle need Jake Arthur in their roster?” Voss said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“They have had 75 different halves combinations and they don’t need another hooker.
“Where does he fit in the top 30? Why do they think they need him?
“They are in surplus. They don’t need another half. Jackson Hastings has only played two games this year.
“(Newcastle must target) middle forwards. It just has to be,” Riccio declared.
“I just can’t get my head around as to why this footy club can’t identify where they are going to struggle next year.
“There’s the loss of Leo Thompson next year, Daniel Saifiti left last year for the Dolphins and their pack has been found thin at various times this year.
“The forward pack has always been the concern. It’s surprising to me. I can’t answer the question of where he is going to play.
“I think he plays in the halves for NSW Cup.”
As part of the deal for Jake Arthur from Manly, the Knights have agreed to a player swap in which the Sea Eagles will obtain young prop Paul Bryan.
The Knights have the bye in Round 18.
