Parramatta Eels vow to stick with Josh Hodgson despite knee injury

He was meant to be their marquee signing but Josh Hodgson has suffered a serious knee injury. The Eels have broken their silence on their 2023 recruit.

NRL 2022 RD01 Canberra Raiders v Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks - Josh Hodgson NRL PHOTOS

THE Eels remain committed to Josh Hodgson and will work with the Raiders to help with the veteran hooker’s long rehabilitation from a serious knee injury.

Hodgson had been earmarked by the Eels as their replacement for Canterbury bound Reed Mahoney but his impending arrival has been marred by the English international undergoing a knee reconstruction.

His 2022 season lasted just six minutes when he hobbled from the field in round one. Originally the Raiders hoped he would be sidelined for just a few weeks but further scans revealed a partial tear to his knee.

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Josh Hodgson’s 2022 season was over after just six minutes. Picture: NRL PHOTOS

Despite the setback the Eels head of football Mark O’Neill said the club were unwavering in its support for Hodgson.

The Eels agreed to a two year deal for the 32-year-old last December. He will turn 35 when his contract expires in 2024.

“We’ll be working closely with the Canberra Raiders on Josh Hodgson’s rehabilitation,” O’Neill said. “Both clubs will provide the high level of care and support to ensure he’s in the best shape possible upon his return to footy next season.

“We’re looking forward to having him join the Eels family in 2023 I’m sure he’ll be a valuable member of our club both on and off the field.”

Barring any setbacks it is expected Hodgson will be right in time for the start of next season.

Reed Mahoney is joining the Bulldogs from 2023. Picture Matt King/Getty Images

Hodgson has been the Eels only new signing for next season as they deal with the impending departures of Mahoney, Marata Niukore (Warriors), Isaiah Papali‘I (Wests Tigers), Oregon Kaufusi (Sharks), Ray Stone (Dolphins).

The Eels are yet to decide if they will hand veteran Mitch Rein another deal after his one year contract expires at the end of this season.

They are on the lookout for a backrower and have been linked to Cronulla’s Briton Nikora. The Eels pulled out of negotiations with St George Illawarra backrower Jack Bird.

Originally published as Parramatta Eels vow to stick with Josh Hodgson despite knee injury