Clint Gutherson has put to bed concerns over Zac Lomax joining Parramatta next season, with the appointment of Jason Ryles as head coach giving the club some clarity.
After weeks of speculation, the Eels confirmed that Ryles had signed a four-year deal for 2025 and beyond on Monday, beating out the likes of Josh Hannay and Dean Young.
Ryles brings a wealth of experience, working with the Storm and Roosters as an assistant coach, as well as spending time in rugby union with the Wallabies and England.
Speaking to media on Tuesday, Gutherson admitted the decision took quite some time, but he’s ready to look towards the future after a tough 18 months.
“It’s good that they’ve finally come to a decision and we can move on,” he said.
“It probably took a little bit longer than everyone thought, but they had to be thorough with the decision.
“It was all the front office, they went through everything that they wanted to do and kept us in the loop. That had nothing to do with us, that was their decision and they knew what they wanted.
“It’s all done now, we can focus on the rest of the year and Rylesy can come in next year and do what he wants to do.”
Despite a push for interim coach Trent Barrett to be retained full-time, Parramatta officials couldn’t look past Ryles’ immense resume and believe he can land the club it’s first premiership since the 1980s.
One of the first pieces of business Ryles must attend to is settling any potential cold feet that Lomax may have, with the Dragons winger signing with the Eels prior to Brad Arthur being sacked as coach.
But according to the captain, there was “never any doubt” over Lomax’s move.
“I don’t think there was any hesitation from Zac,” Gutherson said.
“He’s been calling me weekly about footy and talking, so I don’t think there was any hesitation there. He’s looking forward to a change … he’s a great player and we’re looking forward to having him.
“I don’t think there was ever any doubt of him coming.”
Gutherson also told The Sydney Morning Herald that he would be open to moving positions next year to accommodate young gun Blaize Talagi, who has attracted interest from a number of rival NRL clubs.