Bulldogs roster shake-up continues as Knights land utility
The Bulldogs will rush mid-season signing Liam Knight to Queensland to make his club debut as Newcastle close in on a deal to sign Fa’amanu Brown, who is set to be granted an immediate release from Canterbury to free up a roster spot.
Despite publicising the Knight signing earlier this week, Bulldogs supremo Phil Gould has had to scramble to obtain clearance for the forward to play given the club already had 30 players contracted in its top squad.
It came just a fortnight after club legend Josh Reynolds sacrificed his position on the roster to allow the club to sign Gold Coast playmaker Toby Sexton. Reynolds played his last game in the NSW Cup at Belmore.
But it didn’t stop the Bulldogs pursuing ex-Rabbitohs prop Knight, who was seen as an immediate help to the club’s battered forward depth as they deal with a host of long-term injuries.
The only problem was Canterbury officials couldn’t get Knight cleared for his first NRL game in blue and white against the Dolphins in Bundaberg because their roste was already full.
Brown’s likely defection to the Knights continues the late flurry of player movement before the mid-season deadline ends on August 7, helping Newcastle’s finals charge.
Bulldogs utility Fa’amanu Brown, general manager Phil Gould and forward Liam Knight.Credit: Getty, NRL Photos
The 28-year-old is set to join a fourth NRL club after previous stints at the Sharks, Bulldogs (twice) and Wests Tigers.
Knights coach Adam O’Brien had been looking for a utility to support their finals charge and Brown’s expected poaching will cover for any injuries to Phoenix Crossland or Kurt Mann. First-choice hooker Jayden Brailey is sidelined for the season, while back-up half Adam Clune is also out injured.
It comes as the Knights confirmed State of Origin back-rower Tyson Frizell had signed an extension with the club. Frizell’s deal is for the 2024 season, but includes an option in his favour for 2025 and another mutual option for 2026.
“We are delighted Tyson has recommitted to the club,” Knights general manager Peter Parr said. “His football this year has been as good as it has ever been. Tyson’s presence both on and off field is highly valued by our club.”
The in-form Knights face a huge clash against the Raiders in Canberra on Saturday, starting the round just one point outside the top eight.
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