“He’s continually developing as a player, he still works very hard on his craft. He’s still learning as a person and a player, and his growth is obviously about him learning the game and getting him more involved in certain times of the game and putting a bit of authority on the contest.”
Keary, meanwhile, announced his imminent NRL retirement this week, drawing the curtain on a decorated three-premiership career.
Reynolds, who won the 2014 title with South Sydney alongside Keary, tipped his former teammate to end his playing days emphatically, believing the five-eighth battle would be one of Friday night’s most enthralling.
“He’s had a great career, he’s tough, the way he plays the game he plays it hard,” Reynolds said.
“He’s not afraid of defence, the collision, even though he’s had those head knocks in the past he gets in there and does it. You ask all his teammates throughout his career, he’s a player you want to play with.
“I was lucky enough I got to spend a bit of time with him and made some great memories alongside him. Hopefully, this weekend he doesn’t have a good game, but overall, I’m proud of the career he’s had.”
The Broncos are now as close to full strength as they have been since round one, with centre Selwyn Cobbo the only concern with a shoulder injury, as he trained with a red bib on.
Edge forward Jordan Riki left the field early following a hit to his forehead, but he and Cobbo were both named to play.
Brisbane will need their best on deck to thwart a Roosters side humming after a 60-18 thumping of the Dragons, spearheaded by halfback Sam Walker.
Loading
The future Queensland prospect was prolific with ball in hand, scoring a try and setting up two others while kicking 10 goals from as many attempts.
Walker’s importance to the Roosters’ cause is set to skyrocket following Keary’s retirement, leaving Reynolds wary of what the 21-year-old could produce upon his Brisbane homecoming.
“He’s certainly got the world at his feet, he’s a talented kid and showed that on the weekend. But I don’t think it’s his best game, I think he’s played better than that,” Reynolds said.
“He’s been in some big moments for that club, and he’s delivered, so in a sort of blowout game to say it was his best game is probably hard.
“If it’s a tight contest when they’re down by four or six points, he’s done something to get them back in the game and that’s probably more important.”
