Sharks Hopeful to Retain Andrew Fifita
Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Captain Paul Gallen expects Andrew Fifita to be with the team for the upcoming seasons.
Fifita's session with Sharks was about to end this season. Bulldogs and other NRL clubs have shown their interest to retain the prop.
Meanwhile, few weeks ago, Fifita broadcast via social media that he had signed with Bulldogs for the next season and the following years. But again on Friday, he expressed his wish to choose the union primarily for the criticism that left him high and dry.
Gallen, however, signalled his team not to get bogged down with the criticism by fans.
"It's just part and parcel of the game. The fans are very passionate - they pay their money to support us every week," Gallen said after Fifita joined the training at Redmondis Stadium this morning.
"They don't like to see things like this happen; they don't like to see players leave clubs," Gallen further added.
On Monday, the CEO of Bulldogs, Raelene Castle, bypassed the comments made by Fifita and stated the negotiation was still not finalised.
Gallen expects Fifita to get re-assigned with Sharks and hopes the management will start working on the deal soon.
"He's probably concerned about his future. There's no doubt he'll get a contract - no doubt about that at all ... But the last 24 hours would be confusing. He's not used to this sort of stuff ... He likes his life of coming to training and playing football. He hasn't seen the other side of the media or the other side to football," the captain mentioned in light of the event.
Gallen also expressed the team's disappointment over Fifita's leaving them.
"I was disappointed that he left - everyone was. But we understand it's a business and you've got to the best for yourself and your family ... Now it's up to his management. I'm sure the Sharks will talk to him, I've got no doubt about that ... It's about Andrew getting the best contract for himself and family. Fingers crossed it is here but we'll just have to wait and see," Gallen said.