LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a surprising admission, Clint Gutherson reveals he possesses a pivotal role in guiding his struggling teammates, Kyle Flanagan and Lachlan Ilias, at the Dragons this season.
With a candid acknowledgment from coach Shane Flanagan that the situation surrounding Francis Molo is a "total mess," the Red V are facing a challenging predicament.
This weekend, the Dragons will unveil their revamped halves pairing of Flanagan and Ilias in the Pre-Season Challenge against the Roosters.
Ilias, recruited to fill the void left by former captain Ben Hunt, suffered setbacks in 2024 but is determined to reignite his career in the NRL with St George-Illawarra.
Having faced criticism throughout his NRL journey, Flanagan will aim to team up with the 24-year-old Ilias to form a formidable halves partnership.
As Gutherson, now a co-captain alongside Damien Cook, steps up to support his younger teammates, he emphasizes the importance of instilling belief and trust in them on the field.
"It's about us older guys showing them the way and allowing them to take charge," Gutherson explains.
"The scrimmage against Manly showcased the confidence we have in the halves, and it's about building on that foundation to achieve the team goals."