ST George Illawarra are breathing fire with the Dragons making it clear that star winger Brett Morris is not for sale.
The Leader has reported in recent weeks on moves by the Bulldogs to chase the NSW and Test flankman even though he is under contract until the end of 2015.
Despite some media reports, the Dragons have denied they offered Morris permission to negotiate elsewhere.
In the last 24 hours the Dragons moved quickly to quash speculation about a rumour they gave Morris permission to chat with the Bulldogs.
‘‘The St George Illawarra Dragons, contrary to media speculation, have not offered Brett Morris to other clubs, nor have they suggested that he test his market value external to the Dragons,’’ the statement said.
‘‘The Dragons reiterate that the club has been in negotiations for a number of months to extend Brett Morris’ contract.
‘‘Brett Morris signed a contract in 2012 for seasons 2013, 2014 and 2015 and is therefore under contract until the end of next season.
‘‘The club understands that there are no rules that prevent player managers from talking to other clubs about contracted players.
‘‘The Dragons are aware that another club has offered Brett Morris more money than his contract sum for the 2015 season.
‘‘The Dragons announced last week the appointment of Peter Mulholland as director of recruitment and retention.
‘‘Mulholland this week started working through the club’s salary cap and roster for 2015 and beyond, in conjunction with head coach Paul McGregor.’’
Morris has scored 112 tries in 169 matches and the 28-year-old is in his prime. The Bulldogs want to play him at fullback, a position he has played before in the NRL and in the lower grades with the Dragons.
Dragons teammate Trent Merrin told Fairfax Media he backed Morris to do what was best for him.
‘‘I’ve love to see him stay, it’s home for him,’’ Merrin said.
‘‘But at the end of the day it’s his life and it’s his choice, no one can control that. He’s got to do what’s best for him and his family.
‘‘Definitely from a mate and player [perspective], it would be sad to see him go. But in saying that, you see it from the side that he’s doing what’s best for him.’’
Do you think this is the end of the Brett Morris saga?