Parramatta captain Clint Gutherson could run out in jersey No.13 in 2025 as Jason Ryles plans to deploy the veteran in a hybrid role moving forward. Earlier this week the Eels made it clear they want to keep Gutherson at the club beyond next season when his current deal ends. However, his days at fullback are numbered. While it had been widely speculated that the 29-year-old may be moved into the centres next season, a switch into the forward pack now looms for the Eels skipper. News Corp reports incoming Parramatta coach Ryles has a plan to use Gutherson in a roaming role, similar to that of Dylan Walker at the Warriors. That would either see Gutherson deployed as an unconventional lock or for him to come off the bench in a utility role similar to that of Tyran Wishart at the Storm. Gutherson is only 29 but his body is starting to show signs of slowing down, with his acceleration and mobility on the decline. This was on full display when Tristan Sailor easily breezed past Gutherson last weekend when they were one-on-one. Gutherson has been carrying an injury in 2024 after undergoing surgery on his knee back in April and was clearly hampered in his attempt to stop Sailor, unable to hit full speed despite his desperate attempt to bring to ground the Broncos No.1. But despite Gutherson's defensive effort standing out, the captain also had a hand in almost everything good Parramatta did showing his worth and giving Ryles an idea that he could be best utilised in a roving role next season. Ryles floated the plan to Gutherson this week and it is understood he was receptive to the positional switch and his new proposed role. It is expected new recruit Isaiah Iongi will slot into the fullback role next season after Blaize Talagi opted to join the Panthers. While new signing Zac Lomax will come straight into the side and play either on the wing or in the centres, providing the side with some serious strike power.
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