Thompson not
going to Sharks

Lance Thompson's immediate playing future remains in the balance with the Cronulla Sharks announcing they will not be signing the former Dragon.

Sharks coach Stuart Raper and general manager Steve Rogers met yesterday with Thompson but no contract offer was made.

"Stu and I met and discussed the situation but we are happy with the squad we have assembled and won't be pursuing him for 2006," said Rogers.

"We have got a lot of faith in the young backrowers at the Sharks and believe they can do a good job for us next year."

Thompson, 27, and the St George Illawarra Dragons parted ways this week following a tumultuous month which began on October 7. Thompson walked out of an awards ceremony amidst claims the club was targeting the long-serving forward to alleviate salary cap concerns. Thompson, who had a year to run of his contract, claimed the club were trying to force him out. The club replied with a series of allegations culminating in a letter to Thompson asking him to show cause why he should not be dismissed for misconduct.

Matters came to a head last Tuesday with the both the club and Thompson coming to mutual agreement.

A veteran of 11 seasons, Thompson began his first grade career as a 17-year-old in 1995. Rumours have linked him to the UK as well as South Sydney in 2006 and the Gold Coast in 2007.