Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson knows young utility Connor Watson is the type of player every NRL club would want in their starting side.
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But for now, he insists the in-demand Dubbo product is going to have to "bide his time" on the bench.
Twenty-one-year-old Watson was sensational filling in at dummy-half for Roosters hooker Jake Friend on Sunday, scoring two tries in a 75-minute stint that showed all his skills against Wests Tigers.
It's the reason at least two clubs are reportedly circling for the youngster's signature - including the Tigers - despite him being signed at the Tri-colours until the end of 2018.
"We've been pretty clear with Connor with him being in that utility role for us," Robinson said.
"He's just turned 21. He's still young and developing.
"I think we all can see that he's got a good future in the game. If he's at our place he's going to have to bide some time for a starting position."
Robinson said he had spoken to Watson about reports linking him to other clubs.
Predominantly a half or fullback, Watson made his debut for the Roosters last season, and played the last eight games, starting at five-eighth before Luke Keary's arrival.
He also starred at the Auckland Nines in pre-season, leading the Roosters to the title and finishing with the Player of the Tournament prize.
However Watson has started just twice this season, and news of fullback James Tedesco's signature for 2018 means it will be even harder for him to get a starting chance.
"We're pretty open about that kind of stuff," Robinson said.
"He's one of the best young guys coming through and he's played that way so there's obviously going to be interest when somebody doesn't play a lot of time.
"I think every club wants one of those players in their starting position. But he's developed through our system for quite a few years with some of those guys."
Meanwhile Robinson believes for now the disappointment at being stuck on the bench is working in both Watson and team's favour.
"He's not comfortable because he's striving to be the best player he can be," Robinson said.
"And that's good, that's what you want.
"That's how you get performances like that."
Watson, the son of Mark 'Wacky' Watson who was a well-known hard man who played for number of Dubbo clubs, has been linked with the Tigers and the Newcastle Knights as possible destinations for next season should he be allowed out of the final year of his contract, something which has been rumoured.
