Struggling halfback under pressure as injury prompts sought-after change for Dragons supporters

Andrew Johns is keen to see how new Dragons recruit Daniel Atkinson pairs up with emerging talent Lyhkan King-Togia following a concerning injury to Kyle Flanagan that has compelled the coach to shake up his halves lineup.

Meanwhile, fellow NRL icon Brad Fittler is of the opinion that Dragons coach Shane Flanagan needs to instigate further changes in his squad after a dismal start to the season, remaining winless.

Currently, Flanagan’s team is at the bottom of the ladder, gearing up to face the Cowboys this weekend—a crucial match given their circumstances.

Flanagan’s position has sparked considerable discussion, despite him being under contract until 2028 after signing an extension last year.

Johns feels the premiership-winning coach is “safe” for the time being, but acknowledges that winning matches is essential to quell any rising speculation.

Since taking the reins at the Dragons in 2024, Flanagan has brought in talents such as Valentine Holmes, Damien Cook, Clint Gutherson, and Daniel Atkinson, with Keaon Koloamatangi set to join next season.

Fittler argues that with Flanagan’s influence on the squad’s composition, the pressure is now firmly on him.

“This team now reflects the coach’s vision, so it’s here where the pressure will intensify given he assembled this roster,” he remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Freddy & The Eighth.

“At the moment, the way they are attacking—or rather, not attacking—doesn’t inspire any fear in their opponents. They’ll definitely need to reassess their personnel.”

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The legendary Rooster also demands to see more from players such as Cook, Gutherson, and Atkinson.

“Individually, they haven’t created much, and collectively they’ve lacked urgency. They need to sit down and devise a plan to put pressure on their opponents,” he stated.

With Kyle ruled out for this week, Flanagan has been compelled to implement some alterations for the upcoming matchup. King-Togia will step into the five-eighth position, while Moses Suli and Toby Couchman return from injuries. David Fale is set to make his debut on the wing, pushing Tyrell Sloan to the bench.

Kyle has faced scrutiny regarding his performance over the last two seasons, and Johns is eager to see how the new halves duo performs.

“For the last 18 months, all the discussions have been around Kyle Flanagan (and his position in the team),” he remarked.

“With Kyle sidelined due to injury, we wish him a swift recovery… So King-Togia steps in, which is what many outside the club have been advocating for—let’s see how they fare and then assess.

“I’ve heard that he (King-Togia) has some defensive shortcomings, but those aren’t their major concerns; it’s the scoring that needs addressing. I’m looking forward to their performance.”

The Dragons are set to take on the Cowboys this Saturday afternoon.