7th Tackle: Chooks take action after Ferguson dramas
Blake Ferguson’s off-field choices are costing him dearly, with the Roosters now downgrading his contract offer from a two-year extension to one.
Ferguson had been adamant about wanting a two-year deal, but this week’s headlines are likely to leave him with little bargaining power to argue.
Despite his strong form at club level, there’s also been limited interest from rival clubs. Both the Dragons and Sharks considered his services, only to look elsewhere. We’ve also heard the Tigers and Eels had been approached, but nothing has come of those discussions as yet.
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With plenty of depth out wide for 2018, the Roosters can afford to play hardball. This column first raised the club’s concerns about Ferguson’s lifestyle – in particular gambling – in March.
Notwithstanding, he’s continued to bet while in camp with the Blues and we’re told he landed some big collects.
Accustomed to controversy throughout his career, Ferguson has ignored the issues to win the Blues Players’ Player award in State of Origin II and play consistently good footy for the Roosters on the right wing.
Thankful for the club’s efforts to resurrect his career after a year off in 2014, he’s very keen to stay put.