'I hope we get him': Creagh welcomes approach to Dugan
Josh Dugan has received a ringing endorsement from would-be skipper Ben Creagh as St George Illawarra await word if they can sign the former Canberra No.1 in a bid to fill their growing back-line casualty ward.
With Gerard Beale and Kyle Stanley missing for the rest of the season, Bronx Goodwin and Evander Cummins sidelined for an extended period and Matt Cooper and Brett Morris carrying injuries, the Dragons' back-line depth is being tested. Reluctant fullback Jason Nightingale has again been forced to the back following Beale's injury, making Dugan's arrival even more important.
NRL salary cap auditor Ian Schubert needs to be convinced that Dugan has overcome the problems that led to him being sacked from the Raiders earlier this year. But the fallen Raider has received support from Creagh, who has backed up coach Steve Price's sentiments after the Dragons' mentor said he wanted Dugan to join the club as soon as possible.
"Hopefully the NRL and the Dragons sort it out and he will be at the club soon.":
''That's exciting if that comes through,'' Creagh said.
''It was disappointing losing Bealey a few weeks ago. At the moment we need a fullback and there is a quality fullback like Josh Dugan available. I hope we get him.
''I played with him in Origin and Country. I think he is a really nice guy, a quality player and hopefully the NRL and the Dragons sort it out and he will be at the club soon.''
Despite Cooper and Morris being named in the Dragons squad to play Gold Coast on Sunday, both are struggling to be fit. Cooper has carried a toe injury in recent weeks and missed last Monday's loss against Manly while Morris has a left knee strain.
While Morris' injury isn't expected to keep him out long-term, he could struggle with a shortened week of preparation.
Creagh was impressed with the Dragons' recent recruitment drive highlighted by the impending arrivals of Gareth Widdop, Joel Thompson and Dylan Farrell for next season. The back-rower, who also committed his future to the club for at least a further two seasons last week, said he wasn't being kept informed of any potential signings. ''I think that's left up to Craig Young and Peter Doust,'' he said. ''It should be confidential. I'm happy I'm not involved. I'm not the recruitment guy, I'm the captain. They've done a great job. Some of the buys are really exciting for next season. It's an exciting future for the club.''
Read more:
http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/...ch-to-dugan-20130507-2j5td.html#ixzz2ShKXpZWP
