By Michael Chammas
Incoming Parramatta Eels coach Jason Ryles has quashed uncertainty around skipper Clint Gutherson’s future, informing the fullback’s agent that he is vital to his plans.
It comes as the Eels have reversed their decision to allow back-rower Ryan Matterson to test the open market, with Ryles informing the 29-year-old that he wants him to see out the remaining two years of his contract.
Speculation had been rife that Gutherson could be on the move at the end of this season as part of Ryles’ roster shake-up at the Eels.
Ryles, however, put the speculation to bed in a meeting with Gutherson’s long-time agent Sam Ayoub at a Concord cafe on Tuesday morning.
Sources with knowledge of conversations talking on the condition of anonymity in order to speak freely told this masthead that Ryles intends to use Gutherson in a different role next year but had no desire to release him from his $950,000 contract.
The Eels have agreed to sit down with Gutherson and his agent at the end of the season to discuss the possibility of an extension, albeit at a reduced price.
Clint Gutherson could sign an extension with the club over the offseason.Credit: Getty Images
Nine commentator Phil Gould added fuel to the fire last week when he claimed that there was plenty of chatter in rugby league circles about Gutherson’s future.
“There’s a fair bit of scuttle around as to whether or not he moves from Parramatta,” Gould said on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.
“There’s a lot happening in the market ... there’s plenty of scuttle. I’m not even saying it’s true.
“But this is the sort of stuff that’s going on behind the scenes everywhere, clubs looking to change their roster.”
Isaiah Iongi debuted for the Panthers this month.Credit: Getty Images
Gutherson is likely to be used in the middle of the field as a floating hooker/lock if Penrith recruit Isaiah Iongi impresses in the off-season and makes the No.1 jersey his own.
Ryles has been honest with Gutherson about his plans for him and his desire to utilise his leadership skills next season.
The Eels are hoping to be active in the marketplace but are waiting on contracted players to find homes elsewhere. Prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard is in negotiations with the Dragons and is intent on leaving the club.
Campbell-Gillard’s agent is chasing a three-year deal, but clubs have been reluctant to go beyond two seasons for the 31-year-old front-rower.
Matterson’s agent had previously been informed that he could test the market in the hope the Eels could offload a large chunk of his salary for the next two years. Ryles has a different view on Matterson and wants him around.
NRL is Live and Free on Channel 9 & 9Now
Sports news, results and expert commentary. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.