Paulo rejects Ricky Stuart's overtures

[GB7600]

The Parramatta Eels have enjoyed a victory over former coach Ricky Stuart before their much-anticipated clash with the Canberra Raiders by winning the battle for the services of lock Joseph Paulo.

Paulo is off contract at season's end and has fielded interest from several suitors, including Newcastle. However, the Raiders were the team most likely to prise the 26-year-old out of Parramatta after tabling a lucrative deal. Stuart is well aware of Paulo's skills with the Steeden after coaching the blue-and-golds last year. However, the man dubbed "Captain America" after skippering the Tomahawks in the World Cup has all but agreed to a contract extension that will keep him at Pirtek Stadium for the next two years.

The move continues a barren recruitment drive for the Green Machine after being knocked back by a slew of stars, including Michael Ennis, James Tedesco, Kevin Proctor and Josh Mansour.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/parramatta-eels/joseph-paulo-rejects-ricky-stuarts-overtures-to-remain-an-eel-as-canberra-raiders-miss-out-again-20140904-10bw2b.html#ixzz3CLtc5xT5

More: http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/paulo-rejects-ricky-stuarts-overtures-14794/