Set to secure the fullback spot ahead of Jarryd Hayne at Parramatta this season, Bevan French has received some big praise from the man he's going to keep out of his favoured position.
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Hayne laid on a try for French in the second half, incidentally playing from fullback, as the Eels beat the Knights 26-6 in Maitland with the 30-year-old impressed with the talented flyer.
"It was good to get out there and set Bevvy up for a try," Hayne told NRL.com post-game.
"Caught him a bit flat footed but he's got that much speed.
"He's a freak."
French debuted for the Eels back in 2016 and quickly made his mark scoring 19 tries across 13 games, but had his 2017 season interrupted by injury.
The 22-year-old can play at fullback or wing but has been backed by coach Brad Arthur to be his main man at the back this season despite Hayne's return.
Back in Parramatta colours for the first time in 1268 days, Hayne savoured being back in front of some vocal traveling Eels fans.
"Great to see all the Parra fans, they're everywhere," he said.
"It's great to be home, great to see the fans and all their support.
"We're ready for a big season and looking forward to it."
Hayne made his NRL debut for the Eels in 2006 and played 176 games for the club before briefly taking up the NFL and spending two seasons with the Titans.
