In the eyes of some, new Wests Tigers coach Ivan Cleary has a big challenge ahead of him when it comes to preparing a roster that can go toe-to-toe with elite sides and he has made his first official signing as club coach to try and achieve that.
That signing is current Gold Coast Titans back-rower Chris McQueen, who will join the club on a 3-year deal from the 2018 season.
McQueen’s experience and consistency are the two key factors in the eyes of Cleary.
“I’m really looking forward to having Chris on board for the next three seasons,” he said.
“Not only does he bring plenty of experience with him, he is also an extremely consistent player.
“It’s clear that Chris has greatly helped the Titans’ young players develop on and off the field in the past few years, and that will no doubt be a strong asset at this club too.
With a lot to do to get the club into shape, Cleary hopes that McQueen will impress enough to get the fans onside.
“Knowing how hard Chris works and how team-focussed he is, I’m sure it won’t take long for Wests Tigers Members and fans to really appreciate him and regard him as a fan-favourite,” the new coach added.
Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe also welcomed new addition McQueen to the club.
“Chris is a player of high calibre and will no doubt be a strong asset to our Club,” he said.
“Not only is he an experienced representative player, he is also a great person off the field and possesses the attributes that we value highly at this club.
“I’m sure that Wests Tigers Members and fans will be excited by the addition of Chris to our team from 2018 onwards.”
Perhaps not ideal from a Titans perspective, the club understand that McQueen made a decision to depart but know that he will perform to his ability for the remainder of the year.
“Everyone at the Gold Coast Titans wishes Chris all the best for his move to the Tigers,” Chief Operating Officer, Tony Mestrov said.
“He knows he has a job to do here for the rest of 2017 and knowing the type of player he is, he will give 100% for the club.”