LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a recent interview with Zero Tackle, Canterbury Bulldogs director of football Phil Gould has identified Samuel Hughes as the breakout star to watch in 2024.
Drawing upon his expertise and keen eye for talent, Gould believes that Hughes possesses the potential to replicate Jacob Preston's meteoric rise in the previous season.
Described as a versatile prop who can seamlessly transition into the lock forward position, Hughes showcased his abilities during his first-grade debut in 2023, where he made appearances in five games.
Notably, his inaugural performance came off the bench against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 6, with subsequent bench appearances against the St George Illawarra Dragons, Canberra Raiders, and Penrith Panthers.
Additionally, Hughes was granted a start against the Gold Coast Titans in Round 12, albeit lasting only 17 minutes.
As the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season, Gould took to Twitter to publicly endorse Hughes as the player most likely to emulate Preston's remarkable journey.
For rugby league enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the 2024 season, it appears that Hughes may indeed be the rising star to keep an eye on in the Bulldogs' lineup.