It’s his spot’: Gutho finally opens up on phone call to Dragons gun amid club’s fullback aging headache…
Clint Gutherson, Parramatta’s former captain, has openly discussed his communication with Tyrell Sloan amid his move to the St. George Illawarra Dragons and the team’s evolving fullback dilemma.
The high-profile switch places Gutherson as the new first-choice fullback for the Dragons, creating a reshuffling of Sloan’s role.
The Move to the Dragons
After being granted an early release from the Eels, Gutherson signed a three-year deal with the Dragons.
His arrival addresses the team’s need for experience and leadership following the departure of Ben Hunt. Gutherson’s transfer is expected to stabilize the squad, with the Dragons hoping his extensive NRL experience and on-field versatility will bolster their backline.
Gutherson’s Call to Sloan
Ahead of his arrival, Gutherson reached out to Sloan to assure the young star that his position on the team remained secure despite the reshuffling. Sloan has been the Dragons’ fullback but will likely shift to the wing or a utility role to accommodate Gutherson.
The veteran emphasized that Sloan’s talent is critical to the team’s success and positioned the change as an opportunity for Sloan to grow by observing and learning the intricacies of the fullback role from Gutherson.
“I wanted Tyrell to know this isn’t about pushing him out, but rather about working together to make the team stronger,” Gutherson said during a press event. His mentorship aims to guide Sloan in refining his skills and evolving into a more versatile player for the Dragons.
The Fullback Conundrum
The Dragons’ strategy creates competition for spots, particularly with Cody Ramsey returning from a long-term illness. Ramsey and Sloan are expected to vie for positions in the starting lineup, but Gutherson’s leadership may alleviate potential friction.
Coach Shane Flanagan highlighted the need for senior players to lead by example, which was a significant factor in signing Gutherson.
This approach aligns with the Dragons’ broader plans to build a cohesive team, mixing experienced players like Gutherson with younger talents such as Sloan. The combination aims to create a more dynamic and resilient roster.
Challenges and Implications
For Gutherson, the transition involves taking on new responsibilities both as a player and a mentor.
His salary and potential captaincy reflect the trust the Dragons are placing in him. However, he faces the challenge of adapting to a new system while integrating with a roster that has struggled for consistency in recent years.
From the Dragons’ perspective, Gutherson’s addition is a step toward rejuvenating a team still recovering from significant player losses. If successful, the partnership between Gutherson and Sloan could lay the groundwork for a new era at the club.
Gutherson’s move underscores a key theme in the NRL: balancing the development of emerging stars with the experience of seasoned professionals. His willingness to mentor Sloan reflects a commitment to team growth, which could pay dividends as the Dragons aim for a stronger performance in the upcoming season.
