Former Australian half-back Geoff Toovey has backed Kieran Foran as Manly's long-term No.7 after the rookie Kiwi passed his first genuine test of the 2010 season on Monday night.
In his first match as Matt Orford's successor, Foran had a steady and assured game in the Sea Eagles' 26-22 loss to Wests Tigers at the SFS.
The 19-year-old was strong in defence and combined well with five-eighth Jamie Lyon, his performance lifting some of the gloom in the Manly camp following a calamitous night.
"He was nervous during the week but settled into the game quite well and had a significant input," said Toovey, who has worked with Foran as a member of Manly's coaching staff.
"He was fairly dominant; he talked well out there and was consistent throughout the game."
"He didn't make too many mistakes and he will only improve."
"I think he's headed for a good year."
Asked if Foran was the right man for the job long-term, Toovey replied: "He's got a bright future."
"He comes to training with open ears and open mind and does what's asked of him."
"He's got all the attributes to be a very good half."
"I'd like to have him alongside me if I was playing out there."
Toovey is also excited about the growing partnership between Foran and Lyon.
"It's working well. They're both good defenders and both very good with the ball in their hands," he said.
"I thought they were a positive for us (on Monday night)."
Meanwhile, winger Michael Robertson is preparing for another switch to fullback as cover for the injured Brett Stewart.
The Scottish international spent a large slab of the '09 season in the No.1 jersey after injury and suspension limited Stewart's time in the middle
"It's something we’re going to have to deal with," Robertson said.
"I will do whatever Dessie (Hasler) wants. If he needs me to do that (play fullback) I’ll do it."