The competition for the St George Illawarra Dragons' halves positions is intensifying, particularly with the recent signing of Luke Metcalf, prompting Daniel Atkinson to clarify his role within the team.
Initially brought in from the Cronulla Sharks on a three-year contract, Atkinson was expected to assume the No.7 position for the Dragons in the long run.
However, Metcalf's arrival has complicated the fight for the five-eighth position as the club gears up for the 2027 season, leading to potential selection dilemmas.
Additionally, the Dragons have secured the talents of Scott Drinkwater, Keaon Koloamatangi, and Phil Sami, enriching their roster for the upcoming seasons.
Atkinson finds himself among three contenders, including Kade Reed and Kyle Flanagan, vying for the opportunity to partner with Metcalf in the halves.
Flanagan's season has not been without its challenges, as he faced a tumultuous period following the dismissal of his father from the coaching staff and being replaced by Reed earlier this year.
Nonetheless, Atkinson remains focused on the immediate future and is set to start as five-eighth this Saturday, marking his second match since recovering from a fractured hand.
"Everyone here's got to earn the number on their back, but that's a long time away," he mentioned.
"There's a narrative there that I came here to be a halfback. I came here to be in the halves and to play my game, which is running, kicking, and tackling well."