Guzdek stays with Sheffield for 2023

08/10/2022

Sheffield Eagles are delighted to confirm the re-signing of Josh Guzdek on a one-year deal.

The full-back enters his fifth season with the Eagles, the former Dewsbury Rams player has now totalled 69 appearances for the South Yorkshire club.

The 27-year-old endured a challenging 2022 season thanks to a recurring shoulder injury which has since been treated with an operation that could see Guzdek return to the fold for the start of the season.

Shortly after agreeing new terms with the Eagles, Guzdek said: “It's exciting times for the club, so I’m really happy to be staying on,”

“I enjoyed the time I got on the field this year, hopefully with having my shoulder fixed up, I can get a consistent run of games next year. 

“I know what Tubbs is expecting from me and I am expecting big things next year.”

The full-back displayed his versatility this season when called upon to play in the centres.

The shift from Sheffield Director of Rugby Mark Aston worked a treat in the club’s Summer Bash win over London Broncos, a game that saw the former Hull KR junior score a double for the Eagles.

Speaking about his time at centre, Guzdek said: “Playing at centre is another string to my bow, and I’ll always put my hand up for the team,”

“I always feel more at home at full-back, but I enjoyed it in the centres, if I’m called upon to play at centre, I’m comfortable there.

Looking ahead to 2023, Guzdek said that he expects the Eagles to make a serious challenge for the Championship play-off places, after the club finished seventh this season.

“This year was a bit of a stepping stone, next year I’m sure there'll be a bigger push to get into that top six,” he added.

“Last year we had a large turnover of players which won’t be the case this year, we can build from where we’ve left off and push on from there.

“There were a few results this year that were tight and could have gone our way. If we are able to close those games out, hopefully we can find our way into that top six.”

Eagles DoR Aston is pleased to see Guzdek remain at the club, saying: “Josh has had a good year for us, in a number of different positions,” 

“He played at centre for our Wembley win in 2019 so we knew he had the capability and he has really grown into that role. 

“We know the full-back role is his bread and butter and he’s as safe under the high ball as any in this division. 

“I’m convinced Josh will continue to improve in the Red and Gold. That is exciting for all at the club, considering the level he is already playing at.”

By Lewis Coleman, graphic by Alex Coleman