Mitchell Pearce has given new nib Newcastle Knights recruit Kurt Mann the ultimate wrap by branding him the potential buy of the off-season.
Pearce was full of praise for the 25-year-old utility as he spoke to the media before the Knights visited John Hunter Children's Hospital on Thursday morning.
Sid Fogg's transported the entire squad to the hospital to hand out Christmas gifts.
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"It's a special feeling to come in and see the sick kids who are obviously struggling," Pearce said.
"Some of them are big Knights fans and to come in and hopefully put some smiles on faces, it's very rewarding as players.
"We're not in their shoes but hopefully we can give back to them today."
Before spending time with the kids, Pearce talked about his excitement about playing with Mann next season.
Having played against him, Pearce has always admired his competitiveness.
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"He can play in several positions and I've always had a massive rap on him playing against him and watching him play," Pearce said.
"He could be one of the real buys of the year."
Mann has been brought to the Club to fill the void of hooker Slade Griffin who is sidelined with an ACL injury.
Mann has never played hooker before but Pearce said he's taking to the positional switch.
"He looked pretty sharp to me," Pearce added.
"He's an awesome player, there's still heaps of potential let in him as well."
