Sutton hits back at Souths NRL rumours

South Sydney back-rower John Sutton has rubbished rumours of unrest at Redfern and has promised to present a united front during their NRL Auckland Nines defence.

The Rabbitohs were forced to shoot down suggestions halfback Adam Reynolds had asked for a release while five-eighth Luke Keary stormed out of an earlier team bonding camp after a heated argument with club owner Russell Crowe.

There is growing speculation about the future of both at Redfern as back-up playmaker Cody Walker’s stocks continue to rise with the club opening up contract extension negotiations with the former Queensland Cup player of the year.

While it’s been reported superstar forward Sam Burgess’ return has created a schism, Sutton says suggestions of discontent within Michael Maguire’s unit are inflated.

“That’s just all rumours, I never read the papers because of all the bull****,” Sutton said.

“But everyone is sweet at training and it doesn’t affect us.”

Walker played a leading hand for the Rabbitohs’ feeder team North Sydney in their unlikely run to last year’s NSW Cup finals and he will have a chance to shine at this weekend’s Auckland Nines.

He is likely to receive a NRL call-up for round one with Keary out suspended and is pushing for a place in their starting XIII.

“He had a great season at the Bears and he was knocking on the door for first grade,” Sutton said.

“He’s trained really hard in the pre-season and I’m excited to see what he can do. He’s got a good chance with the Nines and the trials.

“He’s one of those players that, even standing still with the ball, he can make something out of nothing.”

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