Junior Sa'u

He could see it coming from the arrival of Wayne Bennett that he was not in the long-term plans of Knights new coach Wayne Bennett, but that will not stop the career of Junior Sa’u – with the former Knights centre agreeing to a 1-year deal with the Melbourne Storm, next season.

Sa’u, who made his NRL debut in 2008, has played in 86 NRL games to date – with the Knights disappointed to see him go, but thankful for his contribution to the club in the last 5 years.

“Junior has been a great player at the Knights, both on and off the field,” CEO Matt Gidley said.

“He is well respected by his teammates and the people in the community, he has a likeable personality and a willingness to help others.

“He hasn’t had much game time this year and we are pleased he has found a new home.

“We thank Junior for his contribution over the last five years and wish him well for the future.”

Although leaving any club is hard, for Sa’u, although he will be sad to leave the club that gave him a start – for he and his partner, it was about going where there was an opportunity to play first-grade footy.

“It has been a great five years at the Knights,” Sa’u said.

“The Knights is where it all started for me; I am grateful for the opportunity and to the Club for allowing me to fulfil my dreams.

“Thank you to all of the coaching staff, the players, the staff and especially the fans, for being there for me through the good and bad times and for all the great memories that I will never forget.

“I am sad to leave the Knights but I know it is a good opportunity at the Storm for me and for my career, and also for my partner.

“It will be a new chapter in our life and something I will look forward to, but not before I finish off the year well at the Knights.”

With the Storm needing extra centre depth in light of the loss of current centre Dane Nielsen, Storm General Manager Frank Ponissi, sees the signing of Sa’u as a welcome addition to their squad.

“The club has been very impressed with the way Junior has conducted himself during negotiations and we look forward to welcoming him at the start of pre-season training,” Ponissi said.

“We had the opportunity to add a centre to our squad with the departure of Dane Nielsen, and Junior will compete for that starting spot with a number of the club’s exciting juniors.”

By ricky

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