Blaize Talagi, the promising young talent at the center of St George Illawarra Dragons’ long-term plans, has finally spoken about the crucial phone call he made to Tyrell Sloan, the club’s incumbent fullback. Amid speculation over his potential to take over the fullback role, Talagi has clarified his intentions and shown respect for the 21-year-old Sloan, who has been pivotal to the Dragons’ attack.
“It’s his spot,” Talagi said, acknowledging Sloan’s position as the team’s first-choice fullback. The phone call, he revealed, was a gesture of transparency and support, ensuring Sloan understood that Talagi wasn’t gunning to displace him but was ready to contribute to the team’s success in any capacity.
The Dragons face a challenging scenario as their fullback conundrum grows more pressing. With veteran Moses Mbye recently released and uncertainty looming over the depth in key positions, the pressure has mounted on both Sloan and Talagi. Sloan, despite moments of brilliance, has faced scrutiny over consistency and defensive lapses, while Talagi’s rise through the ranks has drawn attention as a long-term solution.
Talagi’s candid remarks underscore his maturity and team-first mentality, easing potential tension between the two players. The 19-year-old playmaker emphasized that he is focused on learning from Sloan and improving his own game, rather than prematurely eyeing the fullback role.
For the Dragons, the aging roster and lack of depth in critical positions remain a headache for coach Shane Flanagan. Talagi’s development, alongside Sloan’s growth, could be key to solving the puzzle. As preseason ramps up, all eyes will be on how the pair navigate this dynamic while working toward the club’s revival in the NRL. For now, Talagi’s respect for his teammate signals a positive step forward for the Dragons’
future.
