'He's got real X-factor': Super sub the secret weapon for success?
Today's modern world suggests being a jack of all trades is essential for success and Jayden Campbell has a great opportunity to do just that should he wear the Titans' No. 14 jersey in 2023.
The son of a gun has been named to start on the pine against the Dolphins in Sunday's final trial after a formidable outing in week one of the pre-season challenge, playing at fullback, wing and in the centres; giving Titans fans a glimpse of the role he may play when the season proper rolls around in a fortnight's time.
It's expected he'll move around again this weekend to help coach Justin Holbrook determine the best way to use the naturally-gifted footballer in his top 17 with AJ Brimson returning to fullback to accomodate the arrival of Kieran Foran to the Coast,
"He'll play a little bit of everywhere... a bit of centre and obviously a bit of fullback. He'll pop up in a few places which will be good for him," the Titans mentor revealed.
"I'm not sure yet [of the exact position he'll play], but I just think that's where we're going to start him (on the bench)."
'We need a good, strong hit-out': Holbrook
Whilst there has been plenty of talk publicly about the likely shift for the 23-year-old, taking on a utility role isn't a sight unseen for the 28-gamer; having played there twice last season in his return from a hamstring injury.
Particularly in his second week coming on as a super-sub for 43 minutes, he made almost 100 metres, broke three tackles and most importantly, scored two tries as he roamed free against the Raiders at Cbus Super Stadium.
His lethality to come on and terrorise tired defenders may prove to be the Titans' trump card should Holbrook go that way, as well as his ability to fill most positions if required.
"We all got confidence... JC is just a natural footy player and he's a big part of our team," Holbrook said.
"We're confident that he can come on and slot in anywhere, which not a lot of blokes can do.
"I think he's got that real X-factor about his game.
"Obviously his preferred position is fullback, but we think he's pretty good anywhere he plays, so we'll have a look at that this weekend and see how everyone goes before Round 1."
Match: Dolphins v Titans
Round 2 -
home Team
Dolphins
15th Position
away Team
Titans
4th Position
Venue: Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe
The new role for the youngster will take place in a history-making game for the Gold Coast, up against a third Queensland rival in the Dolphins, a contest the Titans coach is looking forward to being apart of, especially with it featuring both teams' strongest squads in preparation for the season opener.
"They're obviously the new side in the competition and have got a really strong on up right across the field," Holbrook said.
"I think they've done a good job putting their squad together and there's no real weaknesses anywhere across the park so it'll be a big day for them having their main guys run out.
"I'm probably really only worried about us and making sure our combinations are right, but all-in-all the for the game, I think it's great.
"Obviously there's no competition points up for grabs, but to see the two sides at full strength for the first time is probably great for everyone in the game."
Kick-off is at 6.05pm on Sunday at Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe.
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