The Melbourne Storm will soon announce the signing of Brett Finch for the remainder of the 2009 season. Last years NRL runners up have desperately needed a five-eighth since moving Inglis back to the centres and it’s believed everything was finalised this weekend to secure Finch for the remainder of the season.
The former Roosters and Parramatta player had been playing at halfback for the Eels, however many feel that he is a genuine pivot and better suited to the no. 6 role. The ability and personality of Finch on the surface looks to be a good fit for Melbourne.
Already littered with talent, the Storm simply need a steady hand to offer assistance to Cooper Cronk on various sides of the ruck – the options they will possess with Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and now Brett Finch is a scary prospect for opposing teams.
Finch should slot in quickly, his personality will no doubt allow him to form combinations much quicker than the average new recruit to a club.
It’s believed Brett Finch will look to options in the UK Super League following a stint at Melbourne, however a highly successful stint may see the player and Storm club look beyond 2009 – however at this stage it’s simply for the remainder of 2009.
Leading NRL commentator Phil Gould has said publically, the ability of Finch will assist other NRL clubs – however Gould also expressed concern that both the player and Eels club had left themselves very open to being ‘left high and dry’, with the Parramatta club now without an experienced permanent no.7 option and Finch gambling with his career so late in the piece.
While the announcement from the Melbourne club is still being formulated, it’s unclear when Brett Finch will take the field for them. Should things be in place this week, Finch could be an outside chance to face the West Tigers in the Storm’s away game in the upcoming Round 6 fixture.