Manly captain Daly Cherry-Evans has pushed back against swirling rumours linking him to a move to the Sydney Roosters, insisting his focus remains firmly on his Sea Eagles duties despite the club’s fading finals hopes.
Sunday’s 38-28 loss to the Wests Tigers extended Manly’s losing streak to four games, effectively ending their top-eight aspirations in what will be Cherry-Evans’ final season at Brookvale.
The 36-year-old admitted in his post-match press conference that a finals campaign in his final season with the club now looks unlikely.
“We’re now hoping to make the finals which is where you don’t want to be,” DCE said.
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“I don’t know if toll is the right word, but after the game there is a bit to process.
“I’ve got a lot of love for this place so obviously wanted to finish with a finals campaign but that’s really unlikely. The realisation of that is why I looked so disappointed after the game.”
Midway through the season, it was reported that the Sydney Roosters had signed the veteran halfback on a one-year playing deal, with plans to transition him into a coaching role at the club in 2027.
Amid the Sea Eagles’ struggles, speculation has intensified over whether Cherry-Evans might reconsider his planned move, given his inconsistent form this season and the Tricolours’ recent surge led by halfback Sam Walker.
Earlier this week, some reports suggested the Roosters may be having second thoughts, especially after it emerged that DCE’s deal has yet to be officially registered by the NRL.
Speaking after Round 24, Cherry-Evans was quick to dismiss the rumours when asked if the outside noise surrounding his future had affected him.
“Just to be clear so I can differentiate, I’m definitely not happy with losing four in a row,” he stated.
“Everything else to the honest with you, I’m doing the best I can and feeling like I can hold my head up high.”