Brad Arthur praises Parramatta for getting Ryan Matterson deal done

Parramatta coach Brad Arthur expressed his delight at retaining Ryan Matterson after the Eels announced on Sunday morning that the player has penned a new four-year deal.

News broke before Saturday’s game with the Roosters that Matterson had agreed to stay. And the club have now gone official, confirming Matterson is on board until the end of 2026.

“Parramatta Eels back-rower Ryan Matterson has re-signed for four seasons and will remain at the Club until the 2026 season,” they said in a statement on the club’s website.

Speaking after the win over the Roosters Arthur also revealed the deal was in the bag. The coach is delighted to keep hold of Matterson following interest from the Dolphins.

Wayne Bennett had held talks with the player and a deal was on the table for him. However Matterson has opted to turn them down in favour of staying with the Eels.

Arthur says credit also has to go to the club for getting the deal done. It has not been easy. The Eels have already lost some big names.

Reed Mahoney, Isaiah Papali’i, Marata Niukore and Oregon Kaufusi are all on the move. However some big ones have also committed.

Clint Gutherson, Junior Paulo and Reagan Campbell-Gillard all re-signed and now Matterson joins them.

“He is staying. I am not sure if he has actually signed the contract. But he has committed to the club moving forward for the next four years,” Arthur said before it was announced.

“It is hard to keep them all together but I think the club has done a good job to put ourselves in this position where the boys want to stay. Matto announced it to the team tonight so it was a nice boost for us going into the game.”

Eels General Manager of Football, Mark O’Neill also saluted the deal.

“Ryan is an integral part of our