Morley Being Sought On All Fronts

Sydney Roosters star Adrian Morley has stated his desire to stay with the club as talks continue over a new contract. Morley is in the final season of a three-year deal with the club, who he joined from Leeds Rhinos at the end of 2001.

After an indifferent first season, Morley has become one of the most feared players in the NRL, and his form was typified by a powerful showing against Newcastle Knights on Sunday.

The Great Britain star even had the Roosters supporters singing his name after a huge tackle on Craig Hall which, with the scores at 14-8, jolted the ball free and allowed Todd Byrne to cross for a try and set up the 36-14 win.

He admits that, despite interest from Leeds and other clubs to take him back to Tetley's Rugby Super League next season, he is hoping to secure his future with the Roosters.

"I'd like to stay in Sydney, but I don't know what's going to happen yet," he said. "My manager is talking to the Roosters and it's looking okay."

Morley, who will be a key part of the Great Britain plans for November's Ashes Series, has also become the cornerstone of Ricky Stuart's pack over the past 18 months.

"Every week I know Adrian is turning up to play," said Stuart, after the win over Newcastle.

"That's the most important thing for me, that attitude, that's that commitment we all strive for in an elite sport because it's such a committed effort to produce that special type of intensity, that special type of play.

"That just comes down to a bloke wanting to do it for his mates. When you look at our game that's what it's all about."