Wigan coach Shaun Wane suggests Ryan Sutton's move to Australia may be too soon for the 22-year-old prop forward.
Sutton will take a step closer to realising his long-held dream of playing in the NRL when he joins Canberra Raiders on a two-year contract at the end of the season.
But Wane, who is also leaving the Super League club in October, says the Wigan-born player would have a better chance of making the grade down under if he had chosen to make the move later in his career.
"I think there's a chance," Wane said. "I really hope he makes it a success but it's going to be tough.
"Personally I'd have liked him to stay a few more years, win a few more things here then he's ready, but he sees himself as ready now and I'll support him on that and give him everything he needs.
"He's chosen that route and good luck to him. I'll help him in any way I can."
Sutton, an ever-present this season who recently brought up a century of appearances, is set to tour Papua New Guinea at the end of the season with the re-formed England Knights and Wane is recommending that he stays down under to link up early with his new club.
"I'd advise him to go straight there from Papua New Guinea and don't have a break," Wane added.
"But they've got a quality player, I don't watch Canberra that often, but I will do now he's there.
"I just want Canberra to see the best of him and he needs a good pre-season. He needs as long as possible and get straight into pre-season training."
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