Warriors recruit Jeff Robson has thrown his support behind new coach Andrew McFadden, as the club gears up for what could be one of its best seasons yet.
With many questioning whether McFadden has the ability to turn the Warriors into premiership heavyweights, Robson – who played an unlikely role in the Eels' run to the grand final in 2009 – has full faith in his new mentor.
Robson is just one of several Warriors recruits, headlined by the arrivals of Kiwis internationals Issac Luke and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, for the 2016 season and the NRL journeyman is excited by the opportunity to play in McFadden's star-studded line-up.
"Cappy is a really professional coach. I've really enjoyed working with him so far," Robson told NRL.com.
"He's definitely straight down the line and if you're not doing something right or wants you to improve in a certain area he'll sit you down and he'll point out what needs to be fixed or what needs to be worked on.
"I really respect coaches who leave no stone unturned and hopefully his dedication to the team really pays off and we get off to a good start for him."
With his family still yet to join him in Auckland, Robson has kick-started his Warriors career on his lonesome.
Regardless, the laidback nature of the club, Auckland and New Zealand in general is one that suits Robson to a T.
"I'm really enjoying my time there. It's a beautiful city and it's been nice to be able to see it a bit more than I usually would," Robson said.
"When you play over there you see the airport and the industrial area on the way to your hotel and that's about it. The boys have been really welcoming and they're a good bunch of fellas.
"In Auckland itself, you see people out on the street and they're really excited by the season ahead."
Speaking at the Auckland Nines jersey launch on Tuesday, Robson said he's prepared to make his tournament debut if necessary.
With Sam Tomkins and Chad Townsend moving on from the club Robson is likely to take over secondary playmaking duties behind star halfback Shaun Johnson.
"I probably won't get another opportunity to play at the Nines so if the club really wants me to play then I'd definitely be interested. I've heard the support the locals do give you over there during the Nines, and the atmosphere, is outstanding," Robson said.
"I've generally been injured over pre-season so I've missed it the past couple of years so we'll see what happens.
"It would definitely be a great experience – never say never."
