Michael Gordon has never been considered in the same league as Billy Slater, Greg Inglis and Darius Boyd but Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson is adamant he deserves to be spoken about in the same sentence as the great fullbacks of the NRL.
Gordon showed why he is shaping as one of the most astute signings of the season after his two-try effort proved the difference in the Roosters' thrilling 14-12 win over Penrith on Saturday.
Not only did he account for 10 of the Roosters' 14 points, he also pulled off a desperate goal line try-saver on Tyrone Peachey in the final seconds which saved the game for his team.
Gordon's recruitment was seen by many as a short-term measure to fill the No.1 jersey following the departure of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and to help groom youngster Latrell Mitchell to take over the role in years to come.
Robinson said while the one-time NSW representative was never considered a superstar, he was one of the most complete players running around in a No.1 jumper.
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"Mick's been a great player in our game for Cronulla, Parramatta and Penrith," Robinson said.
"The fullbacks are enormous players in our game - your Billy Slaters, Darius Boyds, they get a lot of wraps.
"Mick's not ever been classed with them but he's got a complete game. He does some many things well and that's why players like playing with him.'
While many see Gordon, 33, as a stop-gap solution to the Roosters' fullback problem, it is a role he is willing to play.
"That's my job, that's what I get paid to do," Gordon said.
"No matter where I am, I'm always going to be doing my best. I had an opportunity to come over here and I jumped at it. So far so good but it's only round three."
He only signed a one-year deal and was comfortable should 2017 be his last.
Gordon was left with few options after his departure from Parramatta and admits he would be happily in retirement had Robinson not come knocking.
"I'd be up on the Tweed Coast kicking my feet up living the dream," he said.
"l'll keep living the dream while I'm still here and I'm having a good time.
"If this is my last year, so be it, I'm not too fussed."
