Steve Matai, Brett Stewart and Anthony Watmough at the top of the list.
In the wake of the Manly Sea Eagles’ handling of off-contract backrower Glenn Stewart, three other big names could repordedly be leaving the north shore this NRL season.
Glenn’s brother Brett, Steve Matai and Anthony Watmough could all leave the club in what would be a huge exodus of playing talent.
Only Matai has confirmed he has asked the club for a release as he considers a rich move across the Tasman Sea to play with the New Zealand Warriors.
Steve Matai confirms on Triple M NRL that he has asked the club for a release #NRLsgiman #TripleMNRL #RiseForAlex
— Triple M NRL (@TripleM_NRL) July 21, 2014
Watmough has also been linked with a departure from the club and despite being given a chance to clear the air about his future at Brookevale, the representative forward failed to do so.
Asked Choc Watmough twice on @TripleM_NRL if he’s asked for a release. Twice he didn’t take the opportunity to no. #nrlstiman
— Dan Ginnane (@DanGinnane) July 21, 2014
After Glenn Stewart was seemingly forced out of the club due to salary and other issues, it was highly speculated tat brother Brett would follow.
The pair have a close relationship and their standing as senior members of the Sea Eagles means they could have a rocky road ahead of them before the finals.
All of this drama further compounds the issues Manly has in trying to re-sign star playmakers Kieron Foran and Daly Cherry-Evans, the later of which is the subject of a $4 million move by the Parrmatta Eels for his services.
Manly coach Geoff Toovey did not confirm or deny that several players want out of the club after their win on Monday night, and said such talk was trying to undermine their chances at winning the premiership.
“I don’t talk about individual contracts,” Toovey said. “As far as I know, they’ll be here next year. I can’t confirm or deny [that they’ve asked for a release]. Everyone keeps trying to bring this club down. We will continue on. This year is going extremely well for us. They are playing exceptionally well. That’s what they do best, is play football.
“I can’t guarantee I’ll be here next year. We have a quality and very successful team. I can understand why people want part of it.”
Toovey questioned if his players were being approached by rival clubs before their contracts expired.
“I don’t know if it’s legal or not,” Toovey said, “It’s a quality team full of quality players. We are doing our best to continue on having a great season.”
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