Next man-up: Crossland relishing opportunity in the middle

nib Newcastle Knights utility hooker Phoenix Crossland epitomises next man-up mentality.

After a devastating ACL injury to hooker and Club captain Jayden Brailey during the season, the 22-year-old stepped in to fill 'Brails' big shoes, in one of the hardest positions on the field.

Having played mostly as a halfback throughout his juniors and NRL career, 'Phoen' has made 423 tackles at No.9 for an efficiency of close to 93% along with three tries for the campaign.

On the KNIGHTS // HQ Podcast, Crossland spoke about taking the most of his opportunities this season and reflected on some special times at the Knights so far. Listen on Apple or Spotify. 

"I think just playing consistent footy, it helps everyone," Crossland said on the KNIGHTS // HQ Podcast.

"Although someone went down, it's great to get an opportunity.

"Brails, he's the best. He's such a good lad. 

"He's been around me ever since he got injured, the day after he sent me a text saying 'it's your time and you go get it'.

"I've been loving starting and we've got a great forward pack.. it's made it a lot easier for me.

"I'm expressing myself a bit more this year in my football."

Phoenix joined the boys on the podcast, kicking things off with his very own player quiz.

Young Phoenix moved over to Australia at the age of four after being born in Wellington, New Zealand.

The dummy half spoke about his Kiwi lineage and progressing through the Knights pathways systems.

The boys also chat about some of their favourite games in Knights colours ahead of a huge clash against the Roosters this Saturday.

We finish the episode with our 'Tunes of the Week' talking all things music and hit Phoenix with some quickfire get to know questions.