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Rugby League

Wigan Warriors clarify Barrett's future

01/05/2008

Wigan Warriors have revealed they are prepared to let unsettled star Trent Barrett leave the club at the end of the 2008 Super League season.

The 30-year-old Australian is expected to return to his homeland next year for personal reasons, forgoing the final season remaining on the three-year contract he signed in 2006.

Barrett's future has been the subject of much media speculation in recent weeks, which the club claims is a result of the player's agent talking to the press in Australia.

In a statement on the club's website, Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan has responded to the speculation - which he is careful to point out is contrary to the regular policy of silence.

The club have said reports suggesting Barrett has asked for an immediate release are inaccurate, and denounced the majority of the speculation.

In clarifying the situation, the statement reads: "Trent Barrett's agent telephoned chairman Ian Lenagan early last week to inform him of Trent's serious worry about completing his contract period at Wigan because of personal issues.

"Ian and Trent met on Friday last to discuss possible outcomes. In the meanwhile, unfortunately, his agent commented to the media in Australia about the meeting request to discuss Trent's future, producing the media storm which followed.

The statement went on: "The outcome of the informal meeting is that Trent will definitely complete this season with Wigan - which was never at issue with Trent - but will almost certainly leave then and not complete his third contracted year.

"The uncertainty arises from the fact that the Wigan club has not yet received a formal release request from Trent's agent, that discussions on compensation have not yet even started and that changes of mind can sometimes occur in these situations.

"In these particularly genuine circumstances, the Wigan club does not believe that forcing the player to honour his contract would be sensible since an unsettled player can result in poor performances which are of no benefit to either party.

"The Wigan club also recognises and accepts Trent's stated enjoyment and satisfaction of playing for Wigan, for living in the area and his affection for the fans."

Barrett has been with the Warriors since signing from NRL side St George Illawarra Dragons two years ago and has quickly become a favourite among the club's supporters.