LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Damien Cook's impending departure to the Dragons may not be what Souths wanted, but there's still a chance he could leave them with one final gift before he goes.
With the cash to splash on a replacement, Souths may not have to look too far, with local junior Peter Mamouzelos showing he's ready to step up to the plate.
South Sydney interim coach Ben Hornby acknowledged the tough reality of the NRL salary cap forcing Cook to make the move, but he is backing Mamouzelos to fill the void as the club's long-term hooker.
Cook, who had one more season left on his contract, will likely finish his illustrious career with the Red V after stints with the Dragons, Bulldogs, and Rabbitohs.
Despite the loss of Cook, the move will free up some funds for Wayne Bennett when he returns as coach next season, with Mamouzelos already securing an extension a few months ago.
Despite missing out on Jeremy Marshall-King, who signed with the Dolphins, Hornby remains focused on the present and trusts the recruitment squad to prepare for the future.