A POSSIBLE late season debut for SP PNG Hunters squad members Felix Beki and Vane Manuma could be in the offing, however, club chief executive officer Scott Barker believes the pair need more time to develop.
According to Barker, selection decisions remain entirely with the coaching staff, with player development and readiness continuing to be the main focus.
Barker said he does not influence team selections and has full confidence in the coaches to decide when young players are ready to step up to Hostplus Cup level.
“I have nothing to do with team selections,” Barker said. “You know, I’m very comfortable in the coaching staff we have at the moment and how they go through it and whatever, I am comfortable with them.”
He revealed that Manuma was currently unavailable after suffering an ankle injury and remained in rehabilitation working towards returning to full fitness.
While there has been growing interest around Beki’s progress, Barker said the coaching staff were carefully managing the young prospect’s development.
He explained that Beki had entered the system at a young age and carried expectations that needed to be handled properly rather than rushing his progress.
Barker said both players were talented and had bright futures ahead, but the club wanted to make sure they were fully prepared.
