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Loko Pasifika Tonga’s release request has intensified scrutiny on the Dragons’ selection strategy and Shane Flanagan’s position.
Pressure is mounting on St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan, with frustrated supporters calling for change after young forward Loko Pasifika Tonga requested a release from the club.
The Dragons remain winless after six rounds and sit last on the NRL ladder ahead of their Round 7 clash with South Sydney. The situation has been compounded by a growing list of player concerns, including Jaydn Su'A's decision not to take up his option for next season.
Pasifika Tonga, 20, has played 10 NRL games but is yet to feature in first grade this year. His request to leave came after another omission from the 19-man squad, despite strong NSW Cup form that included a try, multiple line breaks and 252 running metres last weekend.
The prop was instead named in jersey 21, a decision that prompted frustration from both player and management. Former NRL player Mat Rogers, whose agency represents Pasifika Tonga, said the forward felt he was not being developed and lacked clear direction from the club.
The situation has intensified criticism of Flanagan's selection decisions. Supporters have questioned the continued preference for experienced forwards such as Emre Guler, Blake Lawrie and Hame Sele ahead of younger options.
Similar concerns extend to the halves, where Kyle Flanagan has retained his spot while highly rated prospect Kade Reed awaits an NRL debut.
The potential departure of Pasifika Tonga would add to a recent trend of junior talent leaving the club, including Savelio Tamale, Sione Finau and Latu Finau. That pattern has heightened calls for a broader shift in approach, with fans urging the club to prioritise development amid its current struggles.
Despite a promising group of emerging forwards, including the Couchman brothers, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan, the Dragons face the risk of further losses if opportunities at first-grade level remain limited.
With results yet to follow and unrest building, the club's handling of its young talent is becoming an increasingly central issue in its 2026 campaign.
