LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Canterbury Bulldogs' executive Phil Gould has dismissed rumors about Matt Burton potentially transitioning to fullback in 2026, stating there's "no chance" of that happening amid ongoing discussions regarding the team's evolving roster.
Gould's comments came in response to a fan query on X (formerly Twitter), which asked whether Burton might play in the No.1 position next season. Gould's reply was straightforward: "No chance …"
This clarification occurs alongside noteworthy changes at Belmore, where it's anticipated that Burton will team up with Lachlan Galvin in the halves for the upcoming season.
Galvin, who joined from the Wests Tigers earlier this year, is considered Canterbury's long-term option for the five-eighth position. In the short term, Burton is expected to don the No.6 jersey, guiding the team's playmaking efforts.
The long-term strategy could potentially elevate Mitchell Woods-one of the club's most promising young talents-into the No.7 role. If this transition occurs, it might effectively push Burton out of the halves entirely, which could open the door for a return to the centres. This is familiar territory for him, as he previously secured a premiership and was named Centre of the Year while with the Penrith Panthers in 2021.
Although some supporters have suggested the possibility of Burton moving to fullback, Gould's comments reaffirm that Connor Tracey will remain the club's primary choice for the No.1 jersey as they head into 2026.