Parramatta recruit Reece Robinson has tipped halves Chris Sandow and Corey Norman to step up and fill the void left by the departure of Jarryd Hayne to try and earn an NFL contract.
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Robinson, who is in contention for Hayne's No.1 jersey, signed with the Eels on the same day as the NSW Origin fullback's bombshell that he was quitting the NRL to head to the United States.
However, the 27-year-old former Raider said the timing of his move to Parramatta was coincidental and he was as shocked as anyone by Hayne's decision.
"I spoke to Haynsey before he actually left," Robinson said. "I was going to go there when he was there so it was a bit of a surprise that he left. I was looking forward to playing outside him but I guess he wants to look at other things for his future and I can't fault him.
"I think it shocked a lot of people but like he said, he has done just about everything that he wanted to do in his career and he is happy with where he is at so he wanted to try new things."
The loss of Hayne has created an opportunity for Robinson and he is keen to play fullback but would be happy on the wing in an Eels side he believes will surprise those who doubt their credentials without the superstar fullback.
In his absence, Robinson said Sandow and Norman were primed for a big year and confirmed reports the pair had good off-seasons, with Parramatta insiders tipping Sandow to have the best season of his career.
"I think Chrissy and Corey Norman are looking to step up this year, now that Hayne isn't there," Robinson said. "I think the boys are looking forward to stepping up and showing what they can do with their skill and their ability so it is going to be an exciting year.
Robinson was one of six Eels to attend this weekend's NRL Indigenous players camp on the Gold Coast, ahead of Friday night's All Stars clash at CBUS Stadium.
"I think it is important to all of the boys to come here and learn more about their culture and bond with all the other indigenous players in the NRL," Robinson said.
"It doesn't matter which club I play for I am always keen to come to these camps and see mates you play against so it is good."
Robinson is expected to make his first appearance for the Eels in next Saturday night's pre-season trial against Wests Tigers.
