Parramatta veteran Ben Smith welcomes the lack of hype around the Eels ahead of the 2011 NRL season.

The Eels started the 2010 campaign as favourites to win their first premiership since 1986 but flopped miserably, finishing 12th, leading to the sacking of coach Daniel Anderson.

The recruitment of veterans Chris Hicks, Chris Walker, Casey McGuire and Carl Webb has been derided by many, but Smith believes their experience is just what the team needed.

"Some of the reaction from the media has been a bit over-the-top and surprising, Carl, Casey and Chris are all Queensland representatives and have great ability," Smith told AAP.

"Carl has dropped seven kilos and is in great shape and to see these guys in training, they are tearing the place down and being a great example to the younger guys, who are thriving off their enthusiasm."

Smith, who is entering his eighth season with the Eels, also believes Jarryd Hayne is looking sharper than ever.

"Haynesy is always a wanted man, but the attention has been away from him for a bit and I think he is thriving on that," he said.

"The time he has had off due to injury has allowed some down time, which he hasn't had for a couple of years and he looks a lot lighter on his feet and that is great for us."

The Eels open against the Warriors on Saturday week at Eden Park and Smith said the squad is like a coiled spring, ready to get into action.

"We just want to start now, the trials have been good, the new coach has got us where he wants us and none of us can wait for next week to come.

"We believe we have a strong squad, a top class coach and can go much better than last season."

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