Recalled Blues star Clint Gutherson is ready to do anything to help NSW avoid a series whitewash, and teammate Reagan Campbell-Gillard said that includes packing down with him in the front row if required.
Gutherson last played Origin in 2020 and is determined to make the most of his second chance, admitting he thought a recall may have passed him by in a golden era of Blues outside backs.
The Eels fullback earned a surprise call-up for Game III next Wednesday as coach Brad Fittler justified his selection by declaring Gutherson the NRL’s best player on current form.
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“That’s massive, you love hearing that from the big dogs and especially the head coach,” Gutherson told foxsports.com.au.
“It’s super pleasing and I can’t wait to get involved and see what we can do.
“The game changes so much and your form can go up and down with the season and I’m just doing my part for the team and just competing as much as I can.
“I just try to do as much as I can for the team and I’ve been rewarded with this which is great, but I’ve got to come in here and do exactly the same.”
Gutherson praised his Parramatta teammates Mitchell Moses and Reagan Campbell-Gillard, who were also selected, but said he felt for axed prop Junior Paulo.
“Mitch has been really consistent and calm and the more he plays the calmer he’s going to be in this arena,” Gutherson said.
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“I thought he played really well in Game II, the result didn’t go our way but he’s going to go out in this game and try and prove a few people wrong.
“I know Junior is really excited to get back there and also prove a few people wrong. I am feeling for him but it’s the way footy goes.
“I spoke to Junior yesterday and he was a bit disappointed but just turned straight into support mode for me, Mitch and Reg.
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“I’m definitely glad Reg is on my team. When he’s running that hard and putting that big body in front it’s hard to stop, you wouldn’t want to be on the other side of it.”
Gutherson has been picked in the No. 17 jumper in what appears to be an injury cover selection, and Campbell-Gillard backed him to cover every position.
“Whatever you tell him his role is then he’ll absolutely do it to the best of his ability. If you tell him he has to play in the front row, he’ll do it,” Campbell-Gillard said.
“He’ll obviously bring a lot of energy. I’m pretty excited and stoked for him and Mitch to be there and next Wednesday should be fun.”
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