"We have a strategy in place": The role of Gutherson for 2026 has been disclosed amid speculation about a surprising position change — Off-season Central.
Shane Flanagan, the coach of the Dragons, has unveiled the future role of co-captain Clint Gutherson as the seasoned player gears up for his second year with the Red V.
In what has been a tumultuous season for the Dragons, Gutherson stood out as one of the team’s most reliable players in 2025, earning the prestigious Player of the Year award at the club.
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Despite his impressive performance, there have been whispers suggesting that Gutherson might be moved into the halves due to the Dragons’ recent difficulties in that area. However, Flanagan has dismissed such speculation.
"He’s definitely not showing any signs of slowing down; he’s dominating in every aspect," Flanagan stated in an interview with Zero Tackle. (https://www.zerotackle.com/guthersons-future-at-fullback-revealed-as-flanagan-praises-veteran-trio-229815/)
"We need to prepare for all scenarios, and that planning will happen quickly regarding ‘Gutho’, but right now our main focus is hoping for a healthy season from him because he is fitter than ever. If you were unaware of his age and observed his training, you wouldn't guess he is one of the more experienced players on the team."
As it stands, Gutherson is expected to don the No. 1 jersey, while new addition Dan Atkinson is likely to team up with Kyle Flanagan in the halves during the upcoming Round 1 match against the Bulldogs in Las Vegas.
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Bears entice Russell away from Eels | 00:29
KNIGHTS’ NEXT SUAALII GRANTED NRL EXEMPTION
The Knights have received significant news as the NRL has allowed rising star Kingston Seve to train with the first-grade squad.
Often compared to former Roosters sensation Joseph Suaalii, the 17-year-old is a formidable outside back who has attracted interest from both NRL competitors and rugby union clubs.
Seve has recently signed a four-year contract to transition from the Hunter region to join the Dolphins, all while continuing his education at Hunter Sports High.
However, as the pre-season for 2026 approaches, the young talent was initially unable to participate in training with the Knights' first-grade team due to NRL regulations that prohibit players from competing until they turn 18.
According to these rules, athletes must be 17 years old on November 1 of the year they are signed in order to begin training, and since Seve only turned 17 on November 29, he was deemed ineligible for participation in Justin Holbrook’s pre-season activities.
Newcastle officials then sought special permission for Seve in November, which has now been granted according to Code Sports (https://www.codesports.com.au/nrl/nrl-clears-teen-freak-labelled-the-next-suaalii-to-join-newcastle-knights-first-grade-squad/news-story/a3181e881ae4c80df742fd5f698fad58), allowing him to commence training in January.
It is reported that Seve will initially compete in the SG Ball competition before advancing to the NSW Cup.
Since the NRL tightened its eligibility criteria, only one player has received approval to make their debut before reaching their 18th birthday — Joseph Suaalii.
Nonetheless, it is improbable that Seve will play at the first-grade level this season, as the Knights have not made any requests for such permission at this time.
Instead, Seve may be targeting his NRL debut in 2027 after completing his schooling.
