The AFL season wrapped up just a couple of days ago, but off-season activity is already in full swing. Dustin Martin kicked off the new week by re-signing with Richmond while the Hawks continue to wait on a decision from Lance Franklin.
Martin publically thanked the club after inking a new deal for another two season, but by all accounts was forced to re-sign with the Tigers after interest from other clubs dwindled.
A number of other teams allegedly showed interest in nabbing the former No.3 draft pick- including St Kilda, Collingwood, Brisbane and GWS- when the 22-year-old announced he’d be looking to continue his career elsewhere after the Tigers’ disappointing finals campaign.
GWS went as far as to take Martin on tour of the club’s facilities before deciding not to pursue the versatile forward.
“I want to thank the Richmond Football Club and our supporters for being so patient during these negotiations,” Martin said Monday.
“My family and I are grateful for the manner in which (my agent) Ralph Carr has represented me.
“I am now looking forward to doing everything possible to help the Club and my teammates have the success we all crave.”
There’s still no word as to what Buddy Franklin intends to do. A number of Hawks visited Tasmania on Monday where roughly 2,500 Hawthorn fans turned out to celebrate with the Premiership winning side.
Despite rumours Buddy to GWS is a sure thing, captain Luke Hodge wasn’t ready to concede the loss of the star forward.
“Bud knows everyone at the football club wants him there,” Hodge said in Tasmania.
“He’s been able to sit back and have a think about it for a good 12 months now so whatever decision he comes to we’ll understand either way even though we strongly recommend he stays at Hawthorn.”
Franklin gave a teary post-match interview after the Hawks’ successful Saturday at the MCG and is expected to make his decision in the coming days.
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