‘I won’t allow myself to fail’: Ferguson focused on Eels resurrection

The premiership-winning ex-Sydney Roosters star has made the move west to Parramatta in 2019, a shift that sees the 28-year-old go from the NRL’s penthouse to the proverbial out-house in a pretty short space of time.

But rather than mull over the lengthy climb the Eels face to again feature as a competition powerhouse, Ferguson views his latest career move as a huge one for him personally. 

“It’s irrelevant why I came here, it’s just about finding somewhere where I could grow as a player and a person,” Ferguson said.

“This year will be a big year for myself in terms of leadership. I’m looking forward to learning about myself.”

Parramatta finished fourth in 2017 and slumped big time to claim last year’s wooden spoon and the NSW and Australian wingman believes the Eels can rise up the ladder equally quick.

“Every team is training to be there in October and that’s what we’re doing,” he added.

Ferguson enjoyed a huge year during the Roosters’ run to the 2018 title, leading the NRL in metres gained, all runs and post contact metres, too.

He racked up huge numbers – 5301 running metres, more than 500m more than the NRL’s next best – on the back of his powerhouse running game, but Ferguson rejects comparisons to the last Eels’ player with a similar game.

“I’m a different player than Semi (Radradra), and I know what I bring to the club,” the powerful winger said.

“I’ll leave no stone un-turned this pre-season. I won’t allow myself to fail.”