LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Parramatta Eels have been relatively quiet in terms of player recruitment for the upcoming season, only bringing in two new faces.
However, as Round 1 approaches, the battle for positions within the team is intensifying.
The center position is one to watch, with Sean Russell, Bailey Simonsson, and new recruit Morgan Harper all vying for the spot alongside Will Penisini.
Russell, a 21-year-old who shone on the edge last season, seems to have the edge for now.
Another intriguing battle is brewing at the No.
9 position following the retirement of veteran Josh Hodgson.
Young talent Brendan Hands is expected to take the reins in Round 1, but Joey Lussick will be pushing him all season if he doesn't secure a spot on the bench.
The Eels faced external pressure throughout the previous season, including contract negotiations for halfback Mitch Moses and a potential positional switch for Clint Gutherson.
However, with the core group performing well, including Gutherson in peak form at fullback and Brown bouncing back from a troubled season, the team remains hungry to end their 38-year premiership drought after coming so close in 2022.