Monday, March 25, 2013

Norman vows to honour NRL deal with Eels - Sydney Morning Herald


AAP


Young Brisbane fullback Corey Norman says he won't back out of his deal with Parramatta after signing a three-year contract with the Eels from the start of the 2014 NRL season.


Norman is the first major signing of Ricky Stuart's reign as Eels coach after the club missed out on big-name targets Matt Scott, Israel Folau and Greg Bird.


The Eels thought they'd signed young Canberra forward Josh Papalii earlier this month only for the back-rower to renege on the deal and remain with the Raiders.


Norman has until round 13 to change his mind, but the 22-year-old, who's being lined up to play five-eighth for the Eels, says he'll definitely be running out in the blue and gold next season.


"I understand that under the NRL rules I have until round 13 to change my mind, but I just wanted Eels members, fans and sponsors to know that I will be standing 100 per cent by my decision to make the move to Sydney," Normand said.


"I have made a commitment by signing a contract and I will see that commitment and contract through."


It's understood Norman, who's been in the Broncos system since he was a teenager and was identified as Darren Lockyer's five-eighth replacement, has signed for close to $1.5 million until 2016.


He assumed the position last season, but has been shunted to fullback this year after the club picked up veteran Scott Prince from Gold Coast.


Eels halfback Chris Sandow said Norman's signing was great for the club but kept tight-lipped about whether he thought he should play alongside him in the halves.


"He's promising," Sandow said.


"I think his preferred position is five-eight (and) with the ball in his hand he's really dangerous.


"It's something that Sticky has to think about if Corey's going to play there."


Eels coach Ricky Stuart says he can't wait for Norman to wear the blue and gold.


"He is big and confident, has all the skills and has served a good apprenticeship under some pretty decent playmakers up in Brisbane," Stuart said.


Norman, who'll play his 50th game for Brisbane against Melbourne at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night, made his debut for the Broncos in round one against North Queensland in 2010.



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