EXCLUSIVE: Brad Fittler and Andrew Johns Suggest South Sydney as Ideal Destination for Selwyn Cobbo as Dragons Step Back from Pursuit

Two rugby league icons have suggested that the Rabbitohs could be a potential new home for Selwyn Cobbo, following the Dragons’ withdrawal from the pursuit of his signature.

It seems increasingly probable that Cobbo will part ways with the Broncos at the conclusion of the season, having even been hosted by the Dragons in Wollongong last week.

However, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, the Dragons have now opted out of negotiations to steer clear of a bidding war.

The club set a June 30 deadline for Cobbo’s team to finalise a deal, but withdrew their interest when it became evident this timeline would not be met.

Amidst the Dragons stepping back, two rugby league greats have indicated that the Rabbitohs, led by Wayne Bennett, might be the ideal environment for Cobbo to excel.

Cobbo, hailing from the small town of Cherbourg, located four hours north-east of Brisbane, has frequently struggled with homesickness, which has adversely affected his performances on the field.

“He’s one of those players who tends to put in less effort when he’s not feeling motivated,” Brad Fittler commented while filling in for Phil Gould on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.

“It’s reached the point where if the Broncos don’t show him any affection… he’s the sort of player that needs a bit of supportive nurturing.”

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“When you look at Wayne Bennett, he possesses that exceptional ability to inspire and motivate players. Not all coaches can achieve that, nor is it second nature to them.

“You really need to nurture him, to motivate him, because if you don’t, it’s a lost cause.

“He frequently expresses his homesickness, and ultimately, we just need him to deliver on the field. Everyone has different needs.

“Wayne would elicit a fantastic response from him – other coaches would too – but Wayne has a proven track record of bringing out the best in his players.”

Andrew Johns stated that the Rabbitohs are “the ideal fit” for Cobbo, given the number of Indigenous players within the team who could help support him.

“Managing Selwyn requires a delicate touch, and there’s no one better than Wayne Bennett,” he proclaimed on Nine’s Immortal Behaviour.

“The way he handles his Indigenous players – take Latrell, for example. He allows Latrell to return to the farm, which fosters trust. Wayne has faith in Latrell, and Latrell has faith in Wayne.

“With the presence of Indigenous players throughout the squad and backline, including Cody (Walker), (Jack) Wighton, and Latrell, it would create a supportive environment for Selwyn. That would be a great match, perhaps the best match.”

“Whichever club secures Selwyn will have a solid acquisition, provided he can be kept focused, but he will need some support and encouragement.

“Let’s hope he resolves these challenges, as he is an extraordinary talent.”