Canterbury Bulldogs boss Phil Gould has provided insights into Lachlan Galvin’s early days with the club and his potential NRL debut. The 19-year-old has made the extended bench for the Bulldogs’ upcoming match against Parramatta, marking a rapid transition after officially joining the team just last Friday.
Debate surrounds Galvin’s role within the ladder-leading squad, but Gould reassured fans that there is no rush to place him in the NRL team. He stated, “As I told the coaches, we don’t need to rush to find a solution in the coming weeks. We have him contracted for three years,” emphasising the long-term vision for the player.
When asked about Galvin’s immediate playing prospects, Gould hinted at the teenager possibly participating in the NSW Cup over the weekend, rather than jumping straight into first-grade matches. Galvin, primarily a playmaker who has played at five-eighth this season, faces competition within the Bulldogs. Coach Cameron Ciraldo has been reluctant to drop established players like Matt Burton and Toby Sexton, who have both demonstrated solid performances.
Lachlan’s potential has sparked discussions about his future role, with some suggesting he could transition to a ball-playing middle forward. However, Gould noted that it’s unlikely he’ll be replacing established players like Kurt Mann and Bailey Hayward soon.
Despite the uncertainty around his immediate involvement, Gould praised Galvin’s enthusiasm and dedication. “He’s been here every day, immersed in video reviews and training sessions. The coaches can barely get him to go home,” he remarked. Gould is hopeful that Galvin can develop significantly over the next few years.
Galvin’s recent experiences at Concord were challenging, but Gould commended his maturity, particularly in a recent interview with 9News. He noted how Galvin handled the scrutiny surrounding his career, articulately expressing that he remains in control of his decisions. “He conducted the interview like a seasoned professional,” Gould commented, acknowledging his ability to face criticism head-on. In an era where youth often shy away from media scrutiny, Galvin’s composed approach at such a young age is quite remarkable.
As the Bulldogs look to integrate Galvin into their system, supporters are eager to see how this promising young talent will develop under their tutelage over the coming seasons.