Manly Sea Eagles great Anthony Watmough has delivered a scathing assessment of his old club's roster in 2026, focusing particularly on their forwards.
The fierce edge back rower is concerned that the team could be facing significant challenges if they fail to bring in some much-needed strength, especially in their core positions.
While he acknowledges the commendable starting point for coach Kieran Foran, he understands the difficulties he faces with a squad that was assembled prior to his return in November last year.
After a mid-season surge that had them vying for a top-four position, the team has seen their fortunes plummet, resulting in five consecutive losses and a likely finish in the bottom nine.
The 2026 campaign has severely tested Manly's depth, with opponents taking advantage of their weakened forward line due to prolonged injuries to players like Siosuia Taukeiaho, Kobe Hetherington, and Caleb Navale.
The 278-game Sea Eagle also pointed out that improving the Northern Beaches talent pathways is crucial for their future premiership aspirations.
"I think what masked the issues at the club was the 'Fozball' period there," Watmough commented on FanaticsTV.
"the juniors, the pathways haven't been recruited well, the depth is lacking. I don't reckon we've got a Top 30, I reckon we've got a Top 20 that we could choose from."
"We've got people there that just aren't standing up for the club."