Eels may seek steering Rudder

PARRAMATTA has earmarked former Newcastle utility Sean Rudder as a possible playmaking option if it is unsuccessful in luring Brett Finch to the NRL club next season.

Rudder, who partnered Andrew Johns at the scrumbase during the Knights' 2001 premiership victory, hopes to re-establish himself in the NRL after his contract with Catalans Dragons expires at the end of the Super League season.

The Eels are looking for a five-eighth after the loss of utility John Morris to Wests Tigers for next season, with Finch their prime target after Sydney Roosters gave him permission to negotiate with rival clubs.

However, Rudder, is seen as a possible fallback option due to his experience and utility value.
"He's a five-eighth, lock, centre, can play hooker, a bit of back row,'' Rudder's manager, former teammate Tony Butterfield, said.

"He's the sort of guy that could do the job for you in a number of positions.

"He's a player with 138 NRL games and 70-odd Super League games under his belt.

"Rudds is a tough bugger, he's virtually never been injured in all his time."

Rudder's former club has also expressed interest in signing him, as has St George-Illawarra, Penrith, South Sydney and the Roosters.

In other contract news, Wests Tigers are closing in on the signature of Richard Villasanti after tabling the former Kangaroos prop a two-year deal.

"He was on that Kangaroo tour not that long ago, and a player doesn't lose it just like that," Tigers recruitment manager Warren McDonnell said.

"We're looking for him to step up again and maybe step back up into rep football.
"That would be something we'd be aiming at.

"He's spent a bit of time at Balmain before; his wife's family comes from the area.
"It would be a good fit for both of us."

Villasanti has also received interest from his current club the Sharks as well as Super League side Hull, although the reigning premier is believed to have the inside running.