NRL: Roberts to join Eels

Ben Roberts. Photo / Getty Images

Parramatta coach Stephen Kearney has continued the revamp of his playmaking roles for 2012 by announcing the acquisition of former Kiwis international Ben Roberts from National Rugby League (NRL) rivals Canterbury.

Roberts today ended speculation about his future by signing a two-year deal with the Eels - his move follows the Eels recent marquee signing of South Sydney halfback Chris Sandow.

Although Roberts has been plagued by injury and relegated to NSW Cup duty at the Bulldogs, Kearney said the 25-year-old would provide more depth in an area currently serviced by Jeff Robson and Daniel Mortimer.

"Ben's played at international level and while he's had a hard run with injuries recently, we know his potential," Kearney said.

Roberts, a dual international who played five tests for the Kiwis before switching to Samoa in 2008, has made 86 first grade appearances for the Bulldogs but managed only seven minutes against the Wests Tigers in round one so far this season.

Roberts has languished behind off-season recruits Kris Keating and Trent Hodkinson while fullback Ben Barba also blocks his comeback to first grade.

"I'm happy to have my future sorted and I'm looking forward to the next chapter of my career," Roberts said.

"I'm really excited to be playing under Steve next year and want to thank the Bulldogs for everything they've done for me for the past six years."

Despite being confined to reserve grade of late, Cronulla, the Gold Coast and Sydney Roosters were also interested in signing the versatile playmaker.

Roberts said he had been flattered by the interest though the Eels were his first preference.

"When you've got someone of Stephen Kearney's calibre and experience as a coach it is appealing," he said.

Bulldogs chief executive Todd Greenberg had been resigned to losing Roberts, who made his NRL debut for the club against the New Zealand Warriors in 2006.

"He's done a good job and given the club great service," Greenberg said.

"We're just not in a position to make him the sort of offer he could get at other clubs."

- NZPA