Parramatta coach Jason Ryles has expressed his unwavering support for Jarome Luai's upcoming one-season tenure with the Eels.
Luai, a four-time premiership victor with the Panthers, was recently released by Wests Tigers, who are eager to provide their younger halves a chance to shine in first grade.
Ryles voiced confidence that Luai's presence will not hinder the development of Parramatta's rising halves.
He highlighted that adding Luai is beneficial for the struggling 15th-placed Eels, who boast a promising roster of young halves like Joash Papalii, Lincoln Fletcher, and Lorenzo Talataina.
"We're sitting in a spot on the ladder that we don't want to be," Ryles remarked.
"It's no-one's fault directly but we need more experienced players. Jarome fits that bill at the moment.
"We have got younger players that are coming through the pathways and the system that may be ready in 12 months.
"But this gives them an extra bit of time to … learn off a true pro that's won a lot of premierships."
As the Eels navigate a challenging season marked by injuries, centre Will Penisini is expected to make his return from osteitis pubis through reserve grade this weekend.