Souths welcome NRL signing Glenn Stewart

George Burgess admits he’s not sure whether Glenn Stewart will be able to fill the gaping hole left by his brother Sam at South Sydney next NRL season but says he’ll be a welcome addition.

The Rabbitohs on Tuesday confirmed the Manly second-rower had signed a two-year deal with the Redfern-based club from 2015.

The news ended months of speculation over whether the Sea Eagles would be able to offer Stewart a new contract under salary-cap pressure, despite having played 184 matches for the club since his 2003 debut.

Souths were quick to move and use up some of the cash left as a result of Englishman Sam Burgess’ defection to rugby union.

“It’s a good signing,” said younger brother George.

“He’s a very good player, an experienced player and will probably add a lot to the side next year.

“He’s got a lot of skills and tricks up his sleeve and it will add a lot to the young players in the squad.

“We’ve got a few young back-rowers playing. It’ll help them along with their progress.”

Stewart’s signing came just four days after the Rabbitohs secured fellow representative forward Tim Grant following his release from Penrith with two years still left on his contract.

Asked whether he thought the two newcomers would be enough to make up for the loss of Sam, George said: “I don’t know.

“We’ll have to wait and see. I can’t really see the future.

“But Sam’s a massive player for us, he does a lot of work for us, so it’ll be a pretty big spot to fill.”

Teammate Adam Reynolds said both signings were a boost for his side and a vote of confidence in the club.

“It’s definitely great that the club’s attracted great players like them – two high-quality players that have represented their state and they both bring a lot to a football team,” he said.

“But our focus is on this Friday against the Broncos.”

Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire earlier said he was delighted the club had secured Stewart’s services.

“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 in a statement.

“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’s brother Brett, meanwhile, remains under contract with Manly but the star fullback has said he will never play against Glenn, leaving the Sea Eagles under pressure to retain the prolific try-scorer.

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