Canterbury veteran Josh Reynolds believes he knows “what it takes to be a Bulldog” as he pursues an unlikely NRL homecoming.
The 33-year-old was handed a train-and-trial deal to return to his former club ahead of the 2023 season after two seasons in the Super League.
Reynolds left the NRL in 2020 after a turbulent 12 months that included a domestic violence case, for which he was cleared, with a former partner.
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But now the experienced playmaker is solely focused on doing what he can for his beloved Bulldogs after an honest conversation with rugby league supremo Phil Gould.
“I said to ‘Gus’ I’d love to be a part of what they’re building here, whatever that looked like,” Reynolds said to NRL.com.
“It is a young squad. I had a chat to ‘Jacko’ about it and thought it wasn’t a bad idea that I try and give it a crack.
“I had a lot of older guys say to me you’re retired for a long time and that stuck with me a bit. When the wheels did get rolling I was very excited.
“I still don’t know what’s going to happen or what’s going to come of it but at the same time it’s just nice to be home to a club that I love.
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“If there’s one thing I do know it’s what it takes to be a Bulldog. We’ve got a loyal fanbase and all they want is effort. That’s what Cam [Ciraldo] wants too.”
Reynolds’ three month deal came with no guarantees and the former Tiger could be without a contract come January if he fails to break into the top 30.
However, he is backing his knowledge of the game and extensive experience in the NRL to see him continue with the squad throughout 2023.
“I want to play, that’s my priority,” Reynolds said.
“But I also walk into the sheds and there’s 18-year-old kids training with us and I know how daunting that can be, to walk into a first grade team.
“It’s my 13th year in the NRL and any sort of tips I can give to those boys I’m happy to do that and if that’s the role that’s needed I’ll be OK with that.”
