Fresh twist in Matt Lodge saga which could rule out potential Super League move
Matt Lodge in action for Sydney Roosters. Photo: IMAGO / AAP.
There has been a fresh twist in the saga of potential Super League target Matt Lodge after being told by the Sydney Roosters that he was no longer part of the club’s NRL squad.
Fox Sports have reported that the 28-year-old has been sent to undergo the rest of the season and training with the North Sydney Bears in the New South Wales Cup.
The Sydney Morning Herald had previously reported that Lodge was granted permission to leave the club immediately after his management team requested a release from his contract earlier this month.
The club had turned down two requests for Lodge’s release, before changing its mind on the third attempt. Sydney Roosters are reportedly unhappy with the experienced prop’s attitude after being told his contract was not going to be extended beyond the current season.
In a fresh twist, Lodge could be set to spend the rest of the year featuring in the NSW Cup after Fox Sports reported issues between the club and his agent, Isaac Moses.
Fox Sports state that Moses wanted the Roosters to pay out Lodge’s contract for the remainder of the year and let him leave immediately, but the club has now instructed him to train and play with North Sydney Bears.
Lodge has been squeezed out of the side for 2024 following the signing of Spencer Leniu from Penrith Panthers, while the Roosters also opted to re-sign veteran prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves for 2024.
Matt Lodge previously linked with Super League
With 109 appearances in the NRL across stints with Wests Tigers, Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors, Lodge was previously tipped to be of interest to Super League clubs, with recruitment heating up for the second half of the season.
Warrington Wolves are actively searching into the player market following the departures of Thomas Mikaele and most recently Josh McGuire.
Daryl Powell has spoken about his desire of adding to his forward pack for the rest of the year, with two quota spots and salary cap space available.
Lodge is believed to be on contract worth about £236,000, but a mid-season switch for the rest of the year could see him settle for less.
Leeds Rhinos also have available salary cap space for 2023, alongside Wigan Warriors, who were previously keeping their eyes on out-of-contract Luke Thompson.
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