South Sydney Rabbitohs have announced the signing of Manly stalwart Glenn Stewart for the 2015 season, as they continue to prepare for life after Sam Burgess.
With Burgess heading back to England to play Rugby Union for Bath, the signing of Stewart is seen as an almost direct replacement for the Englishman, who will leave at the end of the current NRL season.
Stewart is the second big name Souths have recruited in just over a week – after they also confirmed the signing of Tim Grant on a four-year contract. And, speaking about the Stewart signing, Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire was delighted to get such a huge name in to replace Burgess.
“Glenn is one of the linchpins to the extended success the Sea Eagles have had over the past decade and he will bring a lot to our club,” Maguire said.
“Glenn has achieved a lot throughout his time in the game and the experience that he has at the highest levels on the biggest stage, as well as his leadership qualities, will be invaluable to the young players we have coming through in our squad.
“He’s a tough player in attack and defence that can ball-play as well, and we’re looking forward to adding him to our squad during the next pre-season.”
Stewart – who will end a 12-year association with the Manly Sea Eagles upon moving to Souths, said of the move: “I’m really excited about moving onto that next chapter of my career next year and I’m looking forward to the change, and the challenges, that will come with joining the Rabbitohs.
“I’m glad to have this sorted out early in the season so that I can now concentrate on finishing off the job I need to do for Manly this year.”
