Rival coaches torn on future of loan system

The ability to loan players has worked a treat for the Wests Tigers and Warriors this season but Sharks coach John Morris isn't a fan of the system becoming a permanent option for clubs to pursue.

Morris lauded the efforts of NRL clubs supporting the Warriors in particular, who have been forced to stay in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic and have battled a gruelling injury toll.

The Roosters allowed Poasa Faamausili to play four games for the Warriors before recalling him last month amid an injury crisis of their own.

Penrith then stepped up to offer Jack Hetherington's services indefinitely to Todd Payten's team.

I'm not sure if your fans and members would like to see players regularly going to other clubs but this year is different

Sharks coach John Morris

The emergence of Harry Grant at the Wests Tigers is also likely to make a strong case for the NRL to continue to allow for loan deals to go ahead.

However, Morris would like to see players remain at one club in 2021 or be officially released mid-season.

"I'm happy to support it this year [but] I'm not sure about long-term," Morris said.

"I think once the players pull that jumper on that's the club he plays for. I'm not sure if your fans and members would like to see players regularly going to other clubs but this year is different.

"It's unprecedented what we're going through and everyone can see the massive sacrifice the Warriors have made to keep this competition alive.

"All clubs are happy to help the Warriors because we know what they're going through."

Morris's opposing coach this week, Ivan Cleary, said the loan system had room to explore further opportunities – labelling the Grant and Paul Momirovski switch as beneficial for both clubs.

"It's a season-per-season basis, I think it's definitely something we should look into," Cleary said.

"At the end of the day if it's benefiting not only players but clubs then it's something that could be good for our sport.

"I think it's a real opportunity for the game as a whole to look into this system in the future. From our perspective, it has given Jack an opportunity to play.

"It's been widely spoken about how guys just aren't getting game time. I'm sure he'll probably learn a little bit at a different club, a different system … that type of thing.

"It's a win-win for the Warriors and us, too."

Cronulla took advantage of the cancellation of NSW's Canterbury Cup to recruit Rabbitohs veteran Bryson Goodwin last month in a bid to fill the void left by Josh Morris's move to the Roosters and Bronson Xerri's suspension due to a positive drug test.

The 34-year-old's arrival has coincided with the Sharks stringing together three consecutive wins to place themselves in the top eight and within finals range after a sluggish start to the season.

"Bryson also has a really good temperament to him," Morris said. "He can mix with the younger kids but he also has some great leadership skills.

"He has been a valuable addition for us, and I've really enjoyed his company so far."

Meanwhile, the Panthers have lost Zane Tetevano to a back complaint for Saturday night's clash with Spencer Leniu in line to make his first appearance of the season.