Rabbitohs fan favourite John Sutton granted testimonial game at Redfern Oval

Initially, it was thought John Sutton would miss out on the honour given he had never represented Australia — but the South Sydney legend will be feted at the most fitting of settings.

John Sutton has been granted permission to hold a testimonial game. Picture: AAP

Rabbitohs favourite John Sutton has been granted permission to hold a testimonial game which, aptly, will be played on Redfern Oval.

The Saturday Telegraph revealed South Sydney have ­received permission from the NRL to use their February 23 trial against Penrith to pay tribute to their 2014 premiership skipper and most-capped first grader.

Initially, it was thought Sutton would miss out on the honour given he had never represented Australia.

John Sutton has been granted permission to hold a testimonial game. Picture: AAP

However, an NRL spokesman said on Friday night the testimonial had been approved on the basis that Sutton has now played over 300 matches, holds the record for most matches at Souths and has played his entire career with the Bunnies.

It was also acknowledged that Sutton has made “a significant contribution” to the game — particularly in the South Sydney area — which goes beyond his role as a player.

Part of the money raised from the game will now go to both Souths Cares and Panthers on the Prowl.

The NRL also said that whether a player has represented at international level or State of Origin was a discretionary consideration for testimonials.

Quizzed on the honour, Sutton said: “To be able to lead the team out on to Redfern will be a great honour and it’s truly humbling to have the NRL and Souths behind this game.

“I love this club and everything it stands for. I’ve been a part of some amazing — South Sydney moments like the 2014 premiership, and this game will be right up there with them. I remember watching the ‘Return to Redfern’ games we’ve played in the past and they have a really special feeling about them.”

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Originally published as Rabbitohs fan favourite John Sutton granted testimonial game at Redfern Oval