NRL: Big Bulldogs future tipped for Graham

Adrian Morley. Photo / Getty Images

Englishman Adrian Morley is tipping compatriot James Graham to be an NRL sensation at Canterbury.

One of the most respected and feared players in the NRL during his time with the Sydney Roosters between 2001-2006, Morley knows what it takes to make it in Australia.

The highly touted Graham signed a lucrative three-year deal to play with the Des Hasler-coached Bulldogs from this year.

Morley admits there will be plenty of pressure on the former St Helens prop but he thinks Graham will cope with anything thrown at him, including the bit of sledging.

"I think he'll go very well ... the spotlight is always on England internationals who come over, I can speak from experience on that," said Morley, who is in Sydney on a pre-season camp with his UK Super League club Warrington.

"But the way he plays the game I think he's going to be a sensation over here," said Morley. "He's one of those players who can play many minutes, which is loved over here for a prop."

Morley said English players are more respected in Australia now especially since the recent successes of Gareth Ellis and Sam Burgess.

"I think now the fact that those boys are here it's probably easier for an Englishman now ... when I came over it weren't that common and I probably got a bit more stick," he said.

"But having English players is part of the NRL make-up now ... there'll probably be a few boys out there who might try and take him on but he'll handle whatever is dished out."

- AAP