The former Eels captain left the club in bizarre circumstances at the end of the season.
As he looks to relocate his family closer to Woolongong, new Dragons recruit Clint Gutherson has disclosed that Dylan Brown, a former teammate, sent him a touching note following his unexpected departure from the Eels. After new coach Jason Ryles took over, the former Parramatta captain shocked Eels supporters by announcing he would be joining the Dragons.
Since joining the struggling Eels at the close of the season, the former Melbourne and Roosters assistant has made significant changes to the team after Gutherson and Regan Campbell-Gillard left. The Penrith Panthers signed Blaize Talagi as well, which has made it much more difficult for the new Eels coach to improve the team’s performance.
Although their captain and fullback were obviously unsure of ‘King’ Gutho’s future in the starting lineup, supporters were especially affected by his departure. Reacting quickly, Shane Flanagan signed the representative back to the Dragons.
Having already been hailed as the 2025 team’s captain, Gutherson has jumped right in at the Dragons. In order to demonstrate his dedication to the Dragons, Gutherson first left his family behind before relocating them closer to Wollongong for preseason.
Furthermore, Gutherson has stated that he has no animosity towards any member of the Eels because he is a great leader. This is in spite of his regrettable departure, which was a tragic conclusion after he demonstrated unwavering devotion to the team. In a heartwarming gesture, Gutherson also disclosed that Brown, a former teammate, had contacted him and complimented the 30-year-old on his class while he was in charge.
During Dragons training, Gutherson made a joke about how Dylan probably doesn’t even recall my appearance. But really, it’s a unique feeling to know that you left something behind. You always want to leave the team and a jersey in a better state, and if I’ve accomplished that, then I’ve fulfilled my role.
However, they’re a fantastic club. They will also be moving forward, and since I am currently present and they are there, this is where we are at this point, and I am looking ahead.
Clint Gutherson reveals thoughts on Eels exit
Speaking about his departure on Friday, Gutherson acknowledged that he had come to terms with the fact that it was time to leave the Eels and that he was prepared to take on the upcoming season and revitalise his career. He declared on Friday that he had no animosity against anyone at Parramatta.
I’ll always be able to chat to some of the people that are involved at the club, including some of my closest friends. I don’t harbour any regret or animosity towards anyone there. This is a unique opportunity for a new beginning. For the first time in a long time, I was somewhat anxious on the first day of training.
To help his family feel more comfortable, Gutherson stated that he was still seeking to relocate them to a permanent residence in Wollongong. Although the 30-year-old fullback has been in Wollongong for several weeks, he has only lately assisted his family in relocating to an AirBnB so they may be nearer to one another. “At the present, I’m in the Wollongong, looking for a home to live with my family. So once I’m in, I’m in,” he recently declared.
Clint Gutherson to mentor Tyrell Sloan
Tyrell Sloan is in limbo as Gutherson has been confirmed as the fullback for round one, if healthy. Despite this, Flanagan acknowledged that Sloan was prepared to wait and learn from Gutherson.
“I’ve spoken to Tyrell and ‘Gutho’ is only going to help him develop,” he stated. “When we informed Tyrell (Gutherson) that he was coming, I noticed a hint of joy in his voice, which surprised me.
Our backline hasn’t given him a mentor who can instruct him. It’s wonderful to hear it from another player at times. Tyrell is a talented young player who will likely play fullback, wing, or perhaps centre. He will grow, and ideally he will do so a little more quickly now that Gutho is here.” Although Flanagan is thrilled with his new fullback, the coach acknowledged that they are suddenly looking for a new halfback following Hunt’s departure.
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