Ryan Papenhuyzen says star fullback comparison 'disrespectful' to James Tedesco
Melbourne Storm star Ryan Papenhuyzen has hosed down comparisons between he and James Tedesco ahead of the Storm's meeting with the Roosters this week.
Comparisons between the two star fullbacks have been inevitable with Papenhuyzen's rapid ascension into NRL stardom over the last 18 months, a rise which culminated in him being named the best afield in last year's grand final.
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However, the 22-year-old isn't drawn into the comparisons himself, calling them "disrespectful" and lavishing praise on the Roosters and Blues No.1.
"It's more of a media chat I think," he said.
Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen has been in sensational form to start the 2021 season Getty
"It's probably a little bit disrespectful some of the stuff that has been said about him this week.
"He's been at the top of his game for a long time and I've only been here for a couple of years.
"He has definitely earned the title as the best fullback, and it's always good to go up against the best fullbacks.
"This week is no different, it's just another challenge."
While Papenhuyzen has been touted as a Blues squad member for this year's Origin series, he doesn't believe that he has done enough to be Brad Fittler's starting fullback.
Papenhuyzen doesn't believe he will take the NSW Blues No.1 jersey off James Tedesco this season Getty
"Impossible, I'd say," he said on his chances of replacing Tedesco.
"He deserves it, he got man of the series a couple of years ago and was probably one of their best last year as well. I think as long as he keeps playing good footy, he deserves it.
"(Fittler) sort of just lets us play our footy – you will get picked on your form. I haven't heard too much.
"I'd just be happy to be in the squad. It's pretty cliché, but footy does the talking at the moment."
