EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Delivers Strong Message to Dragons Ahead of Rookie Kade Reed’s Debut

Phil Gould has sent a clear message to Kade Reed’s teammates as the young Dragons prospect prepares for a high-stakes entry into the NRL this Anzac Day, emphasising their “significant protective responsibility”.

The rugby league legend also highlighted that it falls to Dean Young to “revive” the confidence and careers of the Dragons players amidst the “utterly toxic” trolling on social media.

At just 20 years old, Reed will step onto the Allianz Stadium turf in front of a crowd of 40,000 on Saturday for his NRL debut against the Roosters, having secured his spot in the team over Kyle Flanagan.

Young, a celebrated member of the Dragons’ 2010 premiership squad and recently appointed interim head coach, made the bold decision to drop Flanagan and promote Reed mere hours after taking the helm around 5:30 pm on Monday.

“It’s a significant call, a significant call,” Gould remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.

“I’ve witnessed Kade perform in the lower grades, and it’s clear he possesses exceptional talent.

“The question is, when is the appropriate time to introduce these young talents into the top grade?

“I believe the coach is keen for a change, just something fresh, and Kade can deliver that if he receives the necessary support from his teammates.

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“Sometimes, it’s not merely about promoting a young player for his own benefit; it’s about promoting him to encourage those around him to take greater responsibility for the outcomes.

“I’ve had the privilege of debuting young players or selecting them for the team, but my first message to the rest of the squad is: he’s not here to rescue us, and if anything goes wrong, I’ll be looking at you.

“I believe there will be a strong protective dynamic among the other players to ensure that Kade’s transition into the top grade is as seamless as possible.”

Gould acknowledged that there is “no doubt” Reed will be a target for rival teams starting from Saturday.

Star Roosters back-rower Angus Crichton will undoubtedly be aiming to test the young halfback throughout the match—though Reed appears unfazed at least on the surface.

“This scenario could foster unity among the Dragons as they rally around to protect him and tackle the challenge,” Gould added.

Canterbury’s football general manager expressed confidence that Reed could “ignite” the struggling Dragons, offering them “something they’ve lacked for a while”.

While he doesn’t expect St George Illawarra to experience a “miraculous turnaround” similar to Manly’s resurgence under interim coach Kieran Foran, he emphasised the need for Young to help the players reclaim their self-belief.

“Young would certainly sense the pressure the players are under, the uncertainty they’re facing, the criticism they receive,” Gould noted.

“This issue requires further discussion, but the toxic environment of social media, driven by supposed fans, has not gone unnoticed by players, clubs, and staff; it is exceedingly harmful, and the sport needs to take a stand against it.

“Dean Young, having been a player and involved with the club, surely understands the immense pressure on some of these younger players, as well as his senior players.

“Many players at the club will look to him for guidance in rebuilding their careers and renewing their confidence, fostering a mentality of unity as they strive to push through difficulties together and emerge stronger.”

Gould suggested that while the Dragons possess the potential to string together some victories, they are in a “much more delicate situation” than the Sea Eagles were before Anthony Seibold’s dismissal.

“Dean Young has a significant challenge ahead,” Gould concluded.

“However, he holds a deep passion for the club and a considerable belief in the local talent and juniors available.

“He needs to restore the confidence and cohesion within this group, ensuring they play to their full potential. That would make for a solid starting point.”