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Riddell's fitness challenge
By David Riccio November 18, 2007 12:00am EELS coach Michael Hagan has challenged Mark Riddell to solve the club's hooker crisis by turning himself into an 80-minute player. In a statement that would leave most suggesting the Parramatta coach had spent too much time enjoying the off-season sunshine, Hagan claimed Riddell was more than capable of stretching his fitness to fill the void. The recent decision by fellow hooker PJ Marsh to link with the Broncos has left Hagan looking to Riddell for greater stability at No9. "We're certainly looking for some more minutes out of `Piggy'. "I don't think it's unrealistic (to play 80 minutes) and I think that's the challenge that is there for him. "He was averaging about 55 minutes last year, so we're looking for a bit more from him, obviously.'' Hagan said he had spoken to Riddell during the club's return to pre-season training about the prospect of extending his time out on the paddock. "Part of his pre-season plan is to say, 'well, how much work can I get done to knock out as many minutes as I can every week','' Hagan said. "Because he's such a quality player, you'd love to have him out there all the time. "His role would change a little bit, but I still think you have to get the quality of his work out there. "I thought he had a great year last year and the way he's trained already so far has been great.'' Hagan dismissed any suggestion of the club being left short following Marsh's sudden departure two weeks ago. "We've got options with possibly Brett Finch or Matt Keating, who we think is a bloke that could handle a stint when and if Piggy needs a spell. "Anthony Mitchell is also training full-time and is a player we have plenty of time for, being a Junior Kangaroos player.'' Share this article http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,22775599-5006066,00.html |