NRL great Braith Anasta has urged the Canterbury Bulldogs to make a bold positional change following the high-profile signing of teenage sensation Lachlan Galvin, a move that could have major implications for the club’s spine and their current fullback, Connor Tracey.
The 19-year-old Galvin, who recently signed with the Bulldogs in a deal reportedly worth around $750,000 per season, has been at the centre of intense media scrutiny following his controversial departure from the Wests Tigers.
Despite expectations that he would debut in the Easter Monday clash against the Eels, Galvin was named outside the 17, though a late inclusion has not been ruled out.
Anasta, speaking to news.com.au, said the Bulldogs must now consider reshuffling their backline to accommodate Galvin without disrupting the team’s current form.
The former premiership-winning playmaker suggested that representative centre and current five-eighth Matt Burton should be moved to fullback, paving the way for Galvin to slot into the No. 6 jersey.
“I think Galvin is a five-eighth, not a halfback,” Anasta said. “There’s no obvious spot for him right now, especially with Toby Sexton playing so well. But if they want to fit him in, I’d play Burton at fullback and give Galvin the six.”
Anasta believes the change would have minimal impact on team chemistry while maximizing the strengths of all three players—Burton, Sexton, and Galvin. However, such a move would force Tracey either to the bench or reserve grade, a tough but necessary decision according to Anasta.
“Burton fits the modern fullback mould—he’s a strong runner and a ball player,” he added. “It would allow him to inject himself into the game more while keeping Sexton and Galvin involved.”
The Eels match could present a fiery debut for Galvin, should he be included late. Not only would he be facing the club he spurned, but he’s also likely to face jeers from Tigers fans still bitter about his departure.
Anasta, who experienced similar hostility when he left Souths for the Roosters during his playing days, offered advice to Galvin:
“Block out the noise. Back yourself. Opinions don’t matter unless they’re from the people closest to you—family, friends, your coach.”
He added that Galvin appears mature beyond his years with a high football IQ, and now needs to stay focused.
“The decision to leave has been made. Put it behind you and focus on footy—the sky’s the limit.”
The Bulldogs, currently enjoying a strong run at the top of the ladder, face a major selection challenge in balancing youth, experience, and momentum in the coming weeks.
Monday’s blockbuster King’s Birthday clash against Parramatta could be the first step in determining how the club integrates its future star.