LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
"I feel like I am ready to step up to the plate," declared Parramatta Eels' latest addition, Isaiah Iongi, as he sets his sights on challenging for the coveted number 1 jersey currently held by club stalwart Clint Gutherson.
Hailing from the Penrith Panthers, Iongi inked a three-year deal with the Eels for the upcoming 2025 season, marking his NRL debut in round 22 this year with a lone appearance under his belt.
Despite his relative greenness in the NRL arena, the Eels have high hopes for Iongi, banking on his potential to inject some firepower into their backline and potentially oust Gutherson from the fullback position.
The buzz surrounding Iongi's arrival has stirred up speculation about Gutherson's future at the club, particularly in light of recent developments under new coach Jason Ryles.
With Gutherson's contract set to expire in 2025 and no agreement on an extension yet, the dynamic fullback has been given the green light to explore options with other teams, paving the way for a potential changing of the guard at the Eels.