Legendary NRL player Andrew “Joey” Johns has shut down rumors of a potential switch for young star Ilias.
Speculation had been swirling that the 19-year-old Canterbury Bulldogs player would be making a move to the Newcastle Knights, where Johns serves as an assistant coach. However, Johns has put an end to these rumors, stating that Ilias is committed to the Bulldogs and will not be joining the Knights.
In an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Johns stated, “Ilias is a talented young player and we have a good relationship, but he is contracted to the Bulldogs and we respect that.”
Johns also emphasized that the Knights are focused on developing their own young players and are not actively seeking to recruit from other clubs.
“We have a strong focus on developing our own talent and building a strong team culture. We are not looking to poach players from other clubs,” he said.
Ilias, who made his NRL debut earlier this year, has been a standout for the Bulldogs and is considered a rising star in the league. His potential move to the Knights had sparked excitement among fans, but it seems that he will be staying put for now.
Johns’ comments come after Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett also dismissed the rumors, stating that Ilias is a key part of their future plans.
“We see him as a long-term player for the club and we are excited to see him continue to develop and grow with us,” Barrett said.
The Knights are currently in the midst of a rebuilding phase, with a focus on developing young talent. Johns, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NRL history, has been instrumental in this process as a mentor and coach.
With Johns’ reassurance that Ilias will not be joining the Knights, fans can rest assured that the club’s focus remains on nurturing their own young players and building a strong team for the future.
