Andrew and Matty Johns have both expressed their doubts that Dylan Brown can be a star No.7 in the NRL, and an interview from 2019 should send shivers down the spine of Newcastle Knights fans. Brown is set to sign a 10-year deal with the Knights worth a reported $13 million, and will play halfback at Newcastle.
The Knights have struggled in the halves for years, and Brown’s signing with provide some much-needed stability there. The popular theory is Brown will play 7 with young gun Fletcher Sharpe at 6, and with Kalyn Ponga at fullback they’d have a sensational spine.
But doubts have emerged about whether Brown can make it as a 7, and whether he has what it takes to be the chief organiser and playmaker. Back in 2019 after he re-signed with Parra, Brown made some telling comments about how heavily he relies on Mitchell Moses to be the main man at the Eels.
Brown only appeared to only half-joking in an interview with Triple M when he said: “My issue on the field is I’m off with the butterflies (not concentrating). I get a few sprays here and there (because I’m not switched on).
“[Moses] is ears-up with me because he’s used to it. He preps. On tackle one he’s telling me what to do on tackle six, saying ‘mate you’re going to have to kick the ball in five tackles. Be ready.”
Brown and the interviewer were both laughing, suggesting Brown was just mucking around. But the interviewer said: “Parramatta fans will be going ‘Oh my god’ (hearing that).” And now it might be Newcastle fans feeling the same.
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