Gutherson ready to be back in Blue

Clint Gutherson wasn’t expecting to get a call-up for the Westpac NSW Blues for Game Three of the Ampol State of Origin series, so he headed to bed early on Sunday night.

It was only when the Parramatta Eels co-captain got up on Monday morning and he saw a missed call from NSW coach Brad Fittler that he realised something might be up.

“It’s super pleasing, I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face,” Gutherson told NSWRL.com.au.

“I was preparing for the week ahead with Parramatta. It is something that has caught me off guard but I’m looking forward to the week ahead.

“It’s just good to be back around the boys and back in this arena.”

Gutherson played centre for the Blues in all three games of the 2020 series, running for a total of 265 metres and having three try assists.

Since making his NRL debut in 2013, he has played multiple positions including centre, winger and five-eighth before cementing himself as Parramatta’s first choice fullback.

However, coming off the bench will be a new experience for the skilled playmaker.

“It’s exciting, I’ve never come off the bench before and you don’t know what to expect or what’s coming,” he said.

“It’s a different style of game and you just need to be ready and stay ready.

“My game kind of suits that with my energy and me going out and doing my part is what I’m going to try and do.”

Gutherson has backed new five-eighth Cody Walker to put in a strong performance on Wednesday night, having played alongside him in the 2020 series.

“Cody has been in sublime form, and he has been playing some really good football for Souths this year,” he said.

“He’s going to go out there and out in a great performance.”