Eels adapting to mass changes as post-Gutho era begins

The Clint Gutherson-sized hole in Parramatta is a challenge players will have to get used to and one that those who succeed him will have to live up to. Jason Ryles has yet to lead his team out to battle but has already made some big calls in terms of squad selection and recruitment. With several key stars heading out the door, Ryles has sourced the experience and knowledge of Josh Addo-Carr and Zac Lomax for his inaugural season. Returning Eels stars have been learning to adapt to the changes in their squad to begin pre-season training, but the absence of their former skipper has yet to fully sink in. "He is very hard to replace," Dylan Brown said. "Gutho is Gutho. He is one of one." The energy of their leader may no longer be present but the introduction of Addo-Carr has swiftly reignited the much-needed noise and excitement within the Eels camp. "The older boys weren't back yet but all the younger boys were, and it was a bit down," Brown said. "As soon as Addo-Carr walked in, it was loud. "He can talk to a brick wall. He is loud, energetic and we love having him here already." But player movement is not the only change Ryles has implemented at the club for pre-season. In a move to reconnect with the local community, players have spent time working across nine businesses in a move that Ryles hopes will teach his squad to have gratitude for the career and opportunities they have. Walking in the footsteps of four-time premiership-winner Brett Kenny, Brown was among the many players who spent three days working in the hospitality sector. "Well my steaks weren't too good but cutting tomatoes was where I was best," he laughed. "I haven't spent too much time in the cellar but maybe I should get down there so then we will win the comp [like Kenny did]. "We are well looked after. We have doctors, physios, nutritionists," Brown continued. "For us to take them for granted would just be silly of us."