Global, please try and copy and paste those stories (if possible). Not all of us have Bellylaugh subscriptions.🙂
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www.dailytelegraph.com.au
Captaincy, comps and contracts – Clint Gutherson breaks down his future at Parramatta
A galvanising speech to the playing group from the trio of departing Parramatta stars have reaffirmed their commitment to leaving as premiership Eels.
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Clint Gutherson says he was never going to quit Parramatta – still driven to become the club’s first premiership-winning captain in 36-years.
The Eels’ influential fullback has also revealed the club’s trio of departing players – Reed Mahoney, Marata Niukore and Isaiah Papali’i – gave a speech to the playing group on Wednesday outlining their desire to leave with a 2022 grand final ring.
All three players reaffirmed their commitment to seeing out the remaining 12-months of their contracts.
Gutherson, 27, signed a new four-year deal with Parramatta last month that will tie him to the club until the end of the 2025 season.
However, in his first interview since inking his own new deal, Gutherson explained why his process took longer than desired.
“I wanted to stay. I always said that,” Gutherson said.
“I didn’t want it to drag out, I wanted it done before I got back to training.
“These things take time to fit exactly where the player and club want to be.
“I’m really happy to be staying for another few years and to lead this club into what I know will be a good period.
“We’ve all got one goal and I’m going out there every single day to try and better myself to be there on grand final day when it comes.
“Over the last five years I feel I’ve really grown as a player and a leader and if I continue to do that over the next few years here, we’re going to be in a very good spot.’’
Gutherson declined to discuss Paulo‘s current contract situation, however he felt there was a silver lining from the emotional decision by Mahoney, Niukore and Papali’i to leave the club.
“It’s disappointing to see players go,
but the best teams get their players taken,’’ Gutherson said.
(doesn't explain the parra pilfering though...)