Dragons Nab Gutherson as First Signing Post-Hunt
In a move that is sure to excite St George Illawarra supporters, the Dragons have secured the signature of Clint Gutherson, the former State of Origin representative, on a three-year deal. The signing marks a major step in the club’s reshaping of its squad following the high-profile departure of long-time captain Ben Hunt, and comes as part of coach Shane Flanagan’s plan to reinvigorate a side that finished 11th in 2024.
Gutherson, 30, is the club’s first major acquisition since Hunt’s release, and will provide invaluable experience to a Dragons team in transition. Flanagan had already outlined plans to bring in fresh talent, following the arrivals of high-profile players such as Damien Cook and Valentine Holmes, and he is optimistic that the addition of Gutherson will help elevate the club’s standards.
“I’m thrilled to have Clint join us,” Flanagan said in a statement. “He’s not only an elite fullback but also brings leadership, toughness, and versatility to our team. He’s the kind of player who will make those around him better, and I’m confident he will help guide our squad forward.”
Gutherson’s signing comes at a pivotal time for the Dragons, who are still reeling from the loss of Hunt, the club’s talisman for over a decade. Hunt’s sudden departure, and his continued search for a new club, left the Dragons with a sizeable hole to fill in their playmaking department. The absence of Hunt puts pressure on Flanagan to find a solution at halfback, with speculation mounting over whether Gutherson could potentially take on the role himself.
Although Gutherson has been a mainstay at fullback for Parramatta since 2015, it was reported that he was reluctant to stay at the club under the new regime of coach Jason Ryles, who had planned to move him from his preferred position in 2025. As a result, the Eels granted him a release, making him one of the most sought-after players in the market. His departure from Parramatta leaves a significant void in their backline, but for the Dragons, it represents an excellent opportunity to strengthen their squad.
While the Dragons already have a talented, if inconsistent, fullback option in Tyrell Sloan, the arrival of Gutherson opens up a number of possibilities in terms of positioning. There is speculation that he could slot into the halves alongside Flanagan’s son, Kyle, who filled in as halfback during the 2024 season. The potential Gutherson-Flanagan halves combination has sparked interest among fans and commentators, but it is still uncertain whether that will become a reality.
Gutherson’s versatility is one of the key attributes that Flanagan will be hoping to capitalize on. Over his 211-game NRL career, the four-time NSW representative has played across multiple positions, including wing and centre. This adaptability could prove crucial for the Dragons, who have been in need of leadership and cohesion since the departures of key players.
The Dragons’ recruitment drive is far from over. The club is expected to make further moves in the player market as they attempt to turn their fortunes around for the 2025 season. With Flanagan at the helm and a new crop of players arriving, St George Illawarra fans will be hoping that Gutherson’s arrival can help bring success back to the club.
For Gutherson, this move represents the next chapter in his career. Having been a loyal servant of the Parramatta Eels for nearly a decade, the challenge of helping to rebuild the Dragons will be an exciting one. The leadership qualities that have seen him wear the captaincy at Parramatta will no doubt be an asset to St George Illawarra, and his hard-nosed, competitive attitude is exactly what the club needs as they seek to return to the NRL’s top ranks.
In summary, Gutherson’s signing is a significant coup for the Dragons, offering a much-needed blend of experience, leadership, and versatility. As the club embarks on its new era under Shane Flanagan, the addition of a player of Gutherson’s caliber is a major step in their rebuilding process.
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