The Roosters have a secret weapon for their pursuit of a premiership in 2026, and it's not just the players on the roster. But here's where it gets controversial...
James Tedesco, the Roosters' captain, has revealed that the addition of former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika to the club's coaching staff is going to be a game-changer. Cheika, a coaching specialist and forwards coach on Trent Robinson's staff, brings a wealth of experience in high-level setups, having also coached the Argentinian national team in rugby union and the Lebanon rugby league side.
Tedesco says Cheika has wasted no time making an impact on the talented squad. And this is the part most people miss...
"He’s running the defensive part with the middle forwards, and the attack and defence (in the forwards),” Tedesco said on SEN. "He’s obviously had a lot of experience internationally coaching rugby and different teams but I think his involvement will definitely be motivational. I think he’s still been learning the ins and outs of the details of rugby league but I think his motivation and his intensity and how he speaks to us, especially in the tackling and the wrestling, that’s been a real highlight. That’s going to show its teeth soon really, I think."
The Roosters fullback also spoke on the influence of flashy new recruits Reece Robson and Daly Cherry-Evans, who will have a significant impact on the spine of the team. "They’re going to be unreal," Tedesco said. "I think the big thing for me that’s added a lot of value is just their leadership. Cherry’s been a captain and leader for a long time now… and then Reece at nine, touching the ball every tackle, he’s got to be in control of that. Their clear communication (and) leadership’s been a real highlight and a benefit for me."
But what do you think? Do you agree with Tedesco's assessment? Or do you have a different perspective on the impact of Cheika and the new recruits? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
