Roosters coach Matthew Monk said Askew was capable of stepping up.

“Every Hampden league club identifies players in district league they think are ready for a challenge at the next level and Jayden is one of those,” he said.

“All of our positions are up for grabs but clearly he has been a key defender for Creek and we are looking to build a solid back six he’d be part of.”

Monk said Askew had an ability to play on taller forwards.

The first-year coach likened him to Warrnambool premiership defender Sam Wilson.

Wilson crossed from Russells Creek for the 2013 season and found a niche in the Blues’ defence.

“From what I have heard at Creek and seen at training, he has an ability to read the ball,” Monk said of Askew.

Askew, 22, spent an under 16 season at the Roosters.

The accountant said he felt ready to test himself at a higher level and was happy to play whatever role Monk asked.

“I think it is about time I have a crack,” Askew said.

“I have been at Creek every year except one, when I played at South, and I thought I’d go back and have a go.

“I have seen a few Hampden league games in finals but that’s about it so I have no idea what it’s like, except that it’s better.”

Askew joins fellow recruits Robbie Gregg (North Warrnambool Eagles), Robbie Hare (Terang Mortlake), Jesse Hanegraff (Camperdown), South Rovers’ pair Scott Nicolson and Matthew Farmer and rugby convert Inoke Ratu at Friendly Societies’ Park.

The 2013 wooden spooner kick-starts its 2014 season against arch-rival Warrnambool on April 6.