‘They’re looking up to him now’: Cordner heaps praise on his successor
A day after his retirement, Boyd Cordner has heaped praise on the new long-term owner of his No.11 jersey, declaring Angus Crichton will be the player that drives the Roosters’ culture for years to come.
The premiership-winning captain also declared the team’s hard work and “steely concentration” would help them go close to winning the 2021 NRL title.
Roosters player Boyd Cordner has heaped praise on his No. 11 successor Angus Crichton.Credit:NRL Photos
“That’s why the Roosters are still so successful. There have been a lot of injuries, but guys like Angus have stepped up with the way they train and play, and they’re driving the culture now.
“He’s only 25, but with the younger guys coming through, they’re looking up to him now. He’ll be that guy at the club the next few years.”
The 25-year-old Angus Crichton has been excellent on Boyd Cordner’s left edge.Credit:Getty Images
Crichton told the Herald at the start of the year he was only ever the temporary owner of the No. 11 jersey, and was prepared to move, most likely back to the right edge, once his inspirational skipper returned.
He will wear the No. 11 against the Panthers in a game that features the return of skipper James Tedesco after an Origin enforced break.
Cordner said while Crichton was now one of the leaders, Sam Walker, 19 on Wednesday, was every player’s “younger brother”, and one of the great shames about his premature exit from the game was being denied the chance to play alongside the No. 7.
Walker, who has played just nine NRL games, has already shown he is Cordner-like tough.
“Sammy Walker is such a good kid, he’s like a younger brother to all of us at the Roosters, and with him being such a respectful young kid, you have so much time for guys like that coming through,” Cordner said.
“He’s always had talent, but he was all heart again on the weekend when he came off [against the Titans] and then returned and kicked [the winning field-goal]. That will give him so much confidence. He’ll have a very successful career at the Roosters.
“I think we can definitely still win it this year.
“The hard work and steely concentration every player has during every meeting, the preparation, the way they train and how hungry they are, that was all driving me to get back and play.
“It will be a challenge for us because of all the injuries, but you’ve seen everyone step up, and if we keep working hard and get to the finals, we’re a really big chance.”
Cordner said the plan was to take some time out but he would remain around the team for the remainder of the season.
“I don’t think I can sit still for too long, and I’ll be out at Penrith on Friday night,” Cordner said.
“I’ll still go to games. I want to finish the year with the Roosters and be around the boys. I want to finish the year with them, not just for the team but for myself personally.
“I’ll be watching and supporting them. They’re still my best mates.”
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