He didn't want the distractions to overshadow the team. I think he'll do the same again and Gutho will most likely be ruled out if he's waiting on a spot to up his contract.
Here's last years article:
https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/nrl-2018-brad-fittler-to-blacklist-blues-state-of-origin-candidates-if-contract-talks-become-a-circus-20180206-h0ujwe.html
SUMMARY
Brad Fittler has warned prospective Blues candidates he will put a line through their name if their contract negotiations again threaten to disrupt this year's State of Origin series.
The majority of players used in last year's campaign were off contract and the constant speculation about their future proved to be an unnecessary distraction in the lead-up to, and during, the campaign.....
Replies
I don't think he is playing good enough to play origin fuuuui. Seems to crack under pressure His game last week was uninspiring. I would be thinking twice about resigning him. He put his own interests ahead of the team.
All the stuff Fittler said was BS to try explain the players he was using as an excuse if they lost . The mere fact that lodge was touted as possible SOO player says it all.
If Tedesco and Trbojevic were both out Gutherson would be fullback by a process of elimination. But it terms of making the bench utility spot surely Peachey deserves another crack. I don't care how his club side is going. Peachey is a winner, a pure footballer, capable playing just about everywhere on the field.
I don’t think gutho is anywhere near origin section to be honest, nothing to do with his contract talk or his performance there are just too many in front of him. His only chance would be 14 but you have Peachey, Murray and Radley all ahead of him
How lucky NSW to have Peachey, Murray and Radley all in line and capable of filling that 14 spot. Heck, Murray would "almost" start at 13 if the machine that is Jake Trbojevic was injured.