North Queensland Cowboys deny discussion of Jason Taumalolo being on the periphery.
Todd Payten, a fired-up North Queensland coach, has acted quickly to quell speculation that one of his best players is looking for a new home.
Todd Payten, the fired-up North Queensland coach, has a frank message for any club looking into sacked club captain Jason Taumalolo.
The Cowboys raised eyebrows with their decision to remove $10 million man Taumalolo and Chad Townsend from the club’s co-captaincy.
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They have instead chosen young guns Tom Dearden, 22, and Reuben Cotter, 25, to lead the way in the upcoming campaign.
Amidst speculation, new Dragons coach Shane Flanagan was interested in
“I kind of expected this stuff,” Payten stated of the Taumalolo transfer rumors.
“I knew this narrative would unfold once the (leadership) decision was made. It’s expected and rather humorous.
“But I can tell you that Jason will not be at any other club. That will not happen on my watch. He enjoys being here and intends to stay.
“Whoever is pushing this agenda is missing the mark. To be honest, it makes me laugh.”
Taumalolo has faced numerous challenges since taking over as captain three years ago.
Injuries have been a key factor for a man once regarded as the best forward in the game.
As he turns 31 in May of this year, there are doubts that he will be able to see out
But he is thought to be in excellent shape as he enters his 15th season, and while Payten admits Taumalolo was devastated by the demotion, he has handled it admirably.
“Jase was surprised by the decision, but he understood why it was made,” Payten went on to say.
“He was obviously sad, but I anticipated both him and Chad to be disappointed.
“Since then, he has shown great humility around the decision, around his actions and how important it is for him to work with the new leaders and the rest of the group.”
Following a home preliminary final loss in 2022, the Cowboys finished 11th last season, with only 12 victories from 24 games.
