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Clint Gutherson signs three-year deal with St George Illawarra Dragons

Clint Gutherson is officially a Dragon, and the former Parramatta Eels star wasted no time in talking up his new home after putting pen to paper on a fat new deal.

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Clint Gutherson says he feels excited and honoured to pull on a Dragons jersey after signing a three-year deal with the club.

The 30-year-old joins the Red V after nine seasons at Parramatta, a stint that included four State of Origin appearances and four finals campaigns, including a 2022 Grand Final appearance.

Gutherson played 211 matches for the Eels and Sea Eagles but was looking for a change of scene after Parramatta coach Jason Ryles flagged a move away from the fullback position for the upcoming season.

He will now wear the No.1 jersey at the Dragons and be a key figure in the club’s ongoing revival under coach Shane Flanagan.

Clint Gutherson is officially a Dragon.
Clint Gutherson is officially a Dragon.

“I feel really excited and honoured to be able to come here and put this jersey on and have that badge on my chest,” Gutherson said.

“The rich history that this club has is second to none. The direction the club went in this year and where Flano and the staff are taking the club is something I want to be a part of.

“I think I can offer a lot to where we’re trying to go over the next few years. I’m looking forward to the challenge and what lies ahead.”

Flanagan lauded the addition of Gutherson to the club’s roster.

“Clint will be a fantastic addition to our squad over the next three seasons,” Flanagan said.

“He is not just an elite fullback; he also brings leadership, competitiveness, toughness and versatility.

“In addition to his obvious on-field qualities he will also be a huge asset to our emerging players over the coming years.”

Gutherson said he was looking forward to getting started.

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I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH MY TIME AT THE EELS

“It’s been an absolute privilege to wear the blue and gold,” Gutherson said.

“The support from the fans over the last nine years has been overwhelming, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunities the club has given me to grow as a player and a person. I will always cherish my time at the Eels and the relationships I’ve built along the way.”

Gutherson played over 200 NRL for the Eels and his reliability, toughness and commitment to the cause made him a popular figure among supporters.

“We would have liked Clint to be part of our squad in 2025, but we respect his desire to explore new opportunities and believe it’s important to support him in what he feels is best for his career,” Eels coach Jason Ryles said.

“Clint will always be a valued part of our club and we know he’ll succeed wherever he goes.”

General manager of football Mark O’Neill added: “Clint has been an incredible servant of our club. He has been one of the most consistent performers in the NRL over a number of years.

“The legacy Clint leaves, as a former captain of the club, is one of courage and competitiveness, two key attributes for any young aspiring NRL player.”

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/st-george-illawarra-dragons-offer-clint-gutherson-multiyear-deal/news-story/81edf041c606c31a5f367990b9db3125