But the Rabbitohs stalwart won't be honoured for his decorated club contributions in the same way as Johnathan Thurston and Cameron Smith were for theirs after the NRL confirmed it will not relax its stringent rules surrounding the lucrative tribute.

As negotiations over a new deal to play on in 2019 continue, Sutton edges ever closer to becoming the first Souths player to break the illustrious 300-game milestone.

The rejuvenated backrower, who made his debut back in 2004, will run out for the 298th time against North Queensland on Sunday.

However Sutton isn't eligible for a pre-season testimonial match because he hasn't played for NSW or Australia - one of the NRL's strict regulations.

That's despite easily meeting the governing body's other criteria of having played at least 250 NRL games and spending a minimum 10 years at one club.

An NRL spokesman said the criteria was in place to "reserve testimonial matches for the most elite players in the game" and confirmed Sutton did not qualify.

"But the Rabbitohs can hold a tribute day for John at any time to enable fans to thank him for his service to the club," the spokesman said.

Fullback Alex Johnston felt the 33-year-old, who endured two wooden spoons in his first three years at the club before captaining Michael Maguire's side to their 2014 drought-breaking premiership, was worthy.

"I believe so," Johnston said.

"He's a massive part of the club. I know there's rules and guidelines for that but it would be great for him and South Sydney.

"The old fella is running like he's about 20."

Halfback Adam Reynolds cited a huge level of dressing-room respect for Sutton's achievements.

"He's been here since the early '90s I think ... he's a dinosaur," Reynolds joked.

"He's a big, vital part of our team - he was our captain when we won the grand final and he's our longest-serving member at the moment.

"I'd love to see him go around a couple more years."

Sutton has indicated he wants to play on for a 15th season and coach Anthony Seibold is keen to keep him.

On Monday Sutton was vague on where contract negotiations were at, disclosing only a desire to continue the career-best form that's helped propel the resurgent Rabbitohs back into premiership contention.

"Yeah you know those (contract) things, they'll sort themselves out," Sutton said.

"At the moment I'm just enjoying playing my footy and we'll see what happens."

Australian Associated Press