James Tedesco prepares to fly out for Los Angeles and the NRL season-opener.Credit:Nick Moir
“It is easier said than done. But going through last year,that’s a lesson we learnt. We won’t be able to fully ignore that,but we’ll be better at it for that experience.”
Waerea-Hargreaves’ eventual exit is likely to be followed by that of off-contract veteran winger Daniel Tupou,though the Roosters’ two longest-serving current players were both expected to retire last year as well.
Luke Keary’s retention on a one-year deal offers Tedesco a critical senior figure to work with as the club balances generational change from their 2018-19 premiership run.
While neither can play in Vegas,Waerea-Hargreaves (suspended) and injured winger Dom Young both flew out for the Roosters’ camp in Los Angeles on Wednesday.Young’s ligament damage from a crusher tackle last weekend is not expected to require surgery and the hope remains he could be fit as early as round two.
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves,pictured scuffling with now-Roosters teammate Spencer Leniu,will leave an indelible void at the club.Credit:Getty
Tedesco paid tribute to Waerea-Hargreaves’ impact at the club,with the 35-year-old enforcer on track to play his 300th game against Souths in round 3 and 14 matches short of Mitch Aubusson’s all-time club appearance record.
“It won’t be the same at the Roosters without Jared here,” Tedesco said. “He’s one of the best guys you can meet,and a true warrior on the field.
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“I’ve just got so much respect for him. He’s been massive for me as a leader. He’s been here for 15 years and he’s been in the leadership group with me and he backs me whatever I say or think.
“To have that from a guy like Jared and how well he’s respected – not just at the Roosters but around every team in the game – it builds confidence for me.”
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