Walker welcome at Manly says Stewart

Superstar Manly fullback Brett Stewart has welcomed Dylan Walker’s possible addition to the Sea Eagles for the next NRL season and says he would prefer to stay at fullback rather than potentially moving to five-eighth.

Kieran Foran’s defection to Parramatta has left a playmaking spot vacant alongside Daly Cherry-Evans at Brookvale and Stewart has been touted as a possible replacement.

The two-time premiership winner’s preference is to stay at the back and Walker’s acquisition by new coach Trent Barrett could ensure that.

Walker played the majority of his junior football at pivot and would likely succeed Foran on the northern beaches if, or when, he does come across.

At training at Manly’s Narrabeen base on Monday, Stewart said he was keen to stay in the No.1 jersey that he has made his own.

“If ‘Baz’ (Barrett) thinks that is best for the team I would be happy to play there at five-eighth, but I haven’t played in the six since I was 15,” Stewart said.

“Obviously the main difference would be the defence: the amount of blokes running at you.

“With ball in hand things won’t probably change but more just defensive change but I haven’t really thought about it too much.”

Walker’s potential move from South Sydney would bolster an already-strong Manly backline.

“I have heard a few rumours and nothing has been put to paper but Walker would be a good addition to any team,” Stewart said.

“If he did come here I would welcome him with open arms.”

Fellow Sea Eagles veteran Steve Matai also said Walker would be an important acquisition.

“He would be a good addition, he has good feet and great defence and he works hard,” Matai said.

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