LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Sydney Roosters have struggled with a 1-4 start to their 2025 season, and veteran halfback Chad Townsend has been singled out for his underwhelming performance.
Reports indicate that Townsend's form has not been up to his usual standard, prompting speculation about his future with the team.
Immortal Andrew Johns has suggested that Townsend could be dropped for their upcoming match against the South Sydney Rabbitohs, with young player Hugo Savala potentially stepping into the starting halfback role.
Johns made this revelation on Nine's Freddy and The Eighth, stating, "I've heard a bit of mail, a whisper ...
Hugo Savala may start in the halves." While Savala has yet to start a game in the NRL, he has shown promise coming off the bench in the Roosters' recent matches.
Johns also highlighted Townsend's struggles defensively, hinting that his defensive lapses could be a factor in the decision to replace him.
Townsend will need to lift his performance if he wants to avoid being dropped from the first grade lineup, as his spot in the team seems to be in jeopardy.