Souths call for Sutton tribute NRL COMES TO CAIRNS

IF John Sutton’s South Sydney teammates had their way, he would get a testimonial match.

But the Rabbitohs stalwart won’t be honoured for his decorated club contributions in the same way as Johnathan Thurston and Cameron Smith were for theirs unless the NRL relaxes its stringent rules.

As negotiations over a new deal to play on in 2019 continue, Sutton edges ever closer to becoming the first Souths player to break the illustrious 300-game milestone.

The rejuvenated backrower, who made his debut back in 2004, will run out for the 298th time against North Queensland on Sunday in Cairns.

Each and every appearance has been for a team to which he’s dedicated his entire career and he is now offering up arguably his best output to date.

However, Sutton isn’t eligible for a testimonial match because he hasn’t played for NSW or Australia.

That’s despite easily meeting the governing body’s other criteria of having played at least 250 NRL games and spending a minimum of 10 years at one club.

Even if the NRL did loosen the rules and allow Sutton a preseason testimonial game, he would have to have already re-signed to ensure his salary was registered at market value, in turn stopping the game’s proceeds supplementing wages outside the cap.

Fullback Alex Johnston felt the 33-year-old, who endured two wooden spoons in his first three years at the club before captaining Michael Maguire’s side to their 2014 droughtbreaking premiership, was worthy. “I believe so,” Johnston said. “He’s a massive part of the club. I know there’s rules and guidelines for that but it would be great for him and South Sydney.”

Halfback Adam Reynolds cited a huge level of dressingroom respect for Sutton’s achievements.

“He’s been here since the early ’90s I think ... he’s a dinosaur,” Reynolds joked. “He’s a big, vital part of our team.”

Sutton has indicated he wants to play on for a 15th season and coach Anthony Seibold is keen to keep him.

Yesterday Sutton was vague on where contract negotiations were at, disclosing only a desire to continue the careerbest form that’s helped propel the resurgent Rabbitohs back into premiership contention.

“Yeah, you know those (contract) things, they’ll sort themselves out,” he said. “I’m just enjoying playing my footy.”