Why young Roosters halves aren’t worried about DCE’s looming move to Bondi

James Tedesco has heaped praise on young halves Sam Walker and Hugo Savala for the way they have struck up an on-field combination, and blocked out speculation about the expected arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans.

Walker and Savala, both 23, are building momentum as the Sydney Roosters’ halves, even though Savala is expected to make way for 36-year-old Cherry-Evans next season.

Cherry-Evans’ recent mixed form for Manly – and the rise of the young Roosters – has left plenty of Tricolours fans wondering if the Bondi club still needs the former Queensland skipper for 2026.

No deal between the Roosters and DCE has been publicly confirmed.

The combination of Walker, Savala and Tedesco has been going just fine, and will play a pivotal role in deciding Friday’s result against the high-flying Bulldogs at Allianz Stadium.

“For all the outside noise, and for them not to worry about it, it’s a real credit to them,” Tedesco said of Walker and Savala. “There’s a lot of speculation around, and nobody really knows what’s going to happen [next year].

“But just chatting to those boys, they’re focused on each week and the job they need to do. It’s really impressive [how they are coping] at that age. Nobody thought Hugo would be the starting half this year.

“He came in late to the first-grade squad last year, he had some injuries, but he said to me, ‘I knew if I worked hard, and I could prove myself, I’d be able to get a start’. And he’s done that.

“He’s a local kid, really inquisitive about the game, watches a lot of footy, and I love that. I’m loving our combination on the field. He doesn’t overplay his hand; he gives me time and space. He’s been awesome.

“Both guys work hard, do their extras, are always asking questions and leaning on me for advice. They are so proud to play for the Roosters, and to play their footy. That’s what I love about them.”

The Roosters thumped the Dolphins 64-12 on Saturday night, but remain in ninth place, and will get a proper guide to their finals hopes when they play the Bulldogs at Allianz Stadium.

Parramatta follow, then the Storm, then South Sydney, who will have a few more of their senior ranks back by the final round, including skipper Cam Murray.

Tedesco has been in outstanding form, is a short-priced favourite to win the Dally M Medal and is in a good place off the field. He will welcome the arrival of his second child next week.

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Tedesco, 32, is contracted until the end of next year, which is not expected to be his last given the way he is playing and feels.

Prop Lindsay Collins joked: “The boys are getting sick of Teddy getting the match ball every week [as man of the match], and [coach] Trent Robinson giving him wraps every week.”

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