Broncos connection grows at Dragons
THE St George Illawarra Dragons have announced the mid-season signing of Josh McGuire from the North Queensland Cowboys.
McGuire did not play in the Cowboys’ Sunday win against the Wests Tigers due to a virus, but has also been on the search for a new club after falling out of favour at the Cowboys with coach Todd Payten.
If all goes to plan, the 31year old will be available for selection in the Dragons’ clash with the Warriors this week.
The deal will run through for the rest of this season along with 2022 and will see him join former coach Anthony Griffin at the high-flying Dragons.
Griffin coached McGuire at Brisbane in between 2011 and 2014 before being moved on and taking over as coach of the Penrith Panthers.
Current Dragons Andrew McCullough, Ben Hunt, Corey Norman, Kaide Ellis, Tariq Sims and Trent Merrin all have played under Griffin in the past.
“The club has made no secret of its desire to sign an experienced forward for our current campaign and Josh certainly fits this bill,” Dragons general manager of football Ben Haran said.
“Josh’s standing in the game, both at NRL and representative level, cannot be denied and he will certainly add plenty to our current squad.
“We’re looking forward to seeing Josh hit the ground running at the Dragons upon his arrival to training later this week.”
McGuire’s switch also brings an end to speculation Andrew Fifita could join the Red V mid-season from Cronulla. He instead has been linked to Super League club Wakefield, where brother David plays.
Tyrell Fuimaono had recently been playing at lock for the Dragons while Jack de Belin returned to court on Monday to fight rape charges and is set to learn his fate shortly.
McGuire had averaged 104 running metres and 28 tackles this year for the Cowboys.