NRL icons stunned by DCE to Hull move as ‘hell’ joke made with new destination mooted

NRL Immortal Andrew Johns has revealed his surprise at Daly Cherry-Evans’ possible move to Hull FC – even making a joke about him ‘going to hell’ before insisting he could still play in Australia.

Cherry-Evans is in advanced discussions with Hull over what would be an incredible move to Super League for what would likely be the final season of his career.

The Australia star turns 38 at the beginning of next year, which would make him one of the oldest players ever to play in Super League.

But Johns, who himself had a short stint in Super League 20 years ago, insists that Cherry-Evans should be considering a move to remain in Australia if he wants to play on – not switching to England.

Cherry-Evans’ Hull move queried

Speaking on the Freddy and the Eighth show, which he is a co-host on, Johns admitted he was surprised to learn that DCE had held talks with Hull FC – and that they were seemingly progressing.

Johns also made a coy joke, accidentally referring to Hull as ‘hell’.

“Yeah,” he said when asked if he was shocked. “He shouldn’t be going to England, Daly. What is he, 37? He’s got a young family and it’s a big move, especially going to hell, sorry I mean Hull.”

Furthermore, Johns insisted there was an ideal landing spot for him in the NRL if he wanted to play on: the competition’s newest franchise, Perth Bears.

He said: “He’s had no lower leg injuries, he’s still seeing the game really well. If the Chooks (Sydney Roosters) don’t pick him up.. Perth? He’d be a good experienced half-back there. I’d be offering him whatever he wants. $700,000, $800,000?

Meanwhile, co-host Brad Fittler insisted that Cherry-Evans would be worth a bumper deal and a possible contract at the Bears given the impact he has had on Roosters games this year alongside half-back partner Sam Walker.

He said: “He’s worth it. He’s made a big difference at the Roosters. Sam doesn’t do much in his own half, and he contributes once they get over the halfway line. Cherry, he’s the one shifting the ball and he’s got a great long kick. He’s the difference in the big games.”