PREMIERSHIP-winning Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan believes Daniel Mortimer can play a key role in his side’s NRL title defence in 2017.
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The Sharks signed Gold Coast utility Mortimer as the replacement for veteran hooker Michael Ennis, who retired after last month’s grand final triumph over Melbourne Storm.
Ennis aside the Sharks have retained the same side that broke a 50-year title drought.
Wests Tigers had also considered making a play for Mortimer but the Sharks got their man.
Flanagan is adamant securing the services of the former Orange junior will fill both the void left by Ennis and other holes in his playing roster.
“I think Dan was close to going to going to a couple of Sydney clubs, but we decided he would be a good fit for us,” Flanagan said.
“He is experienced and we needed a back-up half, so Dan fits that bill perfectly.”
Mortimer, who only played seven games for the Titans in the 2016 season due to a hamstring injury, is likely to share the dummy-half duties with fellow recruit and former Tigers rake Manaia Cherrington.
The 27 year old has made 126 NRL appearances in a nine-year career that includes stints at the Parramatta Eels, Sydney Roosters and Titans.
Mortimer had reportedly agreed to terms with Super League side Hull KR, but his contract contained a clause that allowed him to renege should an NRL opportunity arise.
Ennis stunned the Sharks with his decision to retire and officials have been searching for a replacement ever since.
He is experienced and we needed a back-up half, so Dan fits that bill perfectly.
- Cronulla Sharks coach Shane Flanagan
The premiers attempted to lure Robbie Farah from the Tigers, but the NSW hooker instead signed a two-year deal with South Sydney.
The Rabbitohs refused to release another target, Damian Cook, and instead opted to extend his stay at Redfern.
With few other dummy half options on the open market after Dragon Mitch Rein signed with Penrith, Cronulla set their sights on Mortimer.
The Sharks are also close to retaining Chris Heighington, ensuring the club will attempt to go back to back with essentially the same team that won this year's competition.
Captain Paul Gallen considered retirement after lifting the trophy but will play on for one more year.
“The main reason I didn't is because of Wade [Graham] and the club, to be honest,” Gallen said.
“We had a senior playing group of me, Wade and Mick, which did a great job.
“It would be good for me to finish on top but it would be a bit selfish.”
