Daly Cherry-Evans reveals 'secret weapon' pushing him towards another NRL premiership

Daly Cherry-Evans has revealed the "secret weapon" behind his incredible longevity at the top level as he chases the "special feeling" of another premiership.

The 35-year-old Manly skipper, who turns 36 before next season begins, has continued to cement himself as one of the game's modern-day greats throughout this year.

Cherry-Evans has helped orchestrate a return to finals football for the Sea Eagles, all while juggling State of Origin commitments and family life with three daughters.

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Speaking to 9News Sydney ahead of the final round of the regular season, the champion halfback admitted his kids were behind his decision to keep playing.

"I've got kids now that really love watching Dad play in the NRL," Cherry-Evans said.

"They'd love nothing more for me than to be an NRL winner while they are kids and can enjoy it with me. There's an extremely competitive person in me and ultimately I do want to keep playing to win a competition.

"I know how special that feeling was and I still remember how special that feeling was. If I can get there again, it would be something I cherish for a long time.

"It does feel like a long time ago - it's surprising you can remember it, but those big moments in your life you find very hard to forget."

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Cherry-Evans won a title with the Sea Eagles in his debut campaign, forming a lethal combination in the halves alongside Kieran Foran.

The playmaker has built a similar partnership with the likes of Luke Brooks and Tom Trbojevic in the spine this season, but there's still a long way between now and grand final day for the Sea Eagles.

As for Cherry-Evans and his future, there's reason to believe the No.7 could play beyond his current contract and towards the age of 40 - especially if he continues to place a high price on looking after his body and recovery.

"That's a long way away … I won't [rule it out] because I'm just enjoying it so much and taking it a year at a time," he said. 

"Where I can, I probably prioritise sleep. It's a bit of a secret weapon I think. People sort of struggle with their sleep and it can sometimes hurt their performance.

"I'm a big advocate for sleep and what it can do for your recovery."

Cherry-Evans was also quizzed on whether he will represent Queensland in next year's Origin series and it's safe to say his poker face needs some work.

"I think so, yeah," he said with a smile.