'Got to fight for it': 'Hungry' Josh Addo-Carr's blunt admission after Eels arrival
Josh Addo-Carr has been given no assurances of a spot in the Eels' starting side come round one, but insists he's "feeling the love" at his new club.
Given a lifeline by new Eels coach Jason Ryles after he was sacked by the Bulldogs over the cocaine scandal, Addo-Carr formally began life at Parramatta earlier this month.
"Feeling really good, really transitioned into the team really well, good bunch of boys, good coaching staff, I've definitely felt the love over the last couple of weeks and I'm really enjoying it," he said.
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Ryles has made no promises to anyone about a spot in the starting side, a decision Addo-Carr believes has only motivated the training group.
"We've got a bunch of amazing players here and it's just going to make everyone hungry, so definitely got to fight for my position and that's what I plan to do," he said.
Josh Addo-Carr has settled in to life as an Eel. 9News
"It's only going to make the team and everyone else better."
Despite his off-field scandals, Addo-Carr said he still believes he holds a senior role within the team as he looks to mentor younger players.
"We've got a young side this year and I want to help these boys achieve their dreams. Hopefully we can do something special this year."
The move across Sydney sees the pair rekindle a relationship the pair formed while both were at the Melbourne Storm.
Ryles said earlier this month that relationship was a significant factor in chasing his signature.
Had I not known him and have the relationship that I do with him, I probably wouldn't be talking about him now," Ryles said.
"But because I've had that experience with him and spent quite a bit of time with him, I know him really well and I know what he can do for our footy club.
"He's made a mistake [and] he's paid the price for it. But now, it's all about what we can do going forward."
Coincidentally, the Eels' round one game will be against the Storm in Melbourne on March 9.
