Broncos deny Bird wants to fly coop
WAYNE Bennett has denied star recruit Jack Bird wants to quit the Broncos despite Brisbane players admitting their $3 million teammate is not happy.
Bird’s debut season at the Broncos has been one to forget and he is expected to miss the remainder of the year as he continues his rehabilitation following sternum surgery.
The NSW Origin star arrived at Red Hill this season on a four-year contract worth in excess of $750,000 a year, making him one of Brisbane’s highestpaid players.
However Bird (pictured) has been restricted to just eight appearances after a shoulder reconstruction delayed his Broncos debut before the sternum problem forced him to undergo surgery.
Bird’s plight has prompted speculation the 23-year-old utility wants to return to Cronulla, where he played a key role in the Sharks’ historic 2016 NRL premiership.
While admitting Bird was frustrated, coach Bennett said he was committed to helping Bird bounce back to his best at the Broncos.
“It’s a tough time for him,” Bennett said.
“He’s been through the worst, it’s all upside for him, but probably not until next year.”
Broncos prop Matt Lodge admitted Bird was struggling to deal with being sidelined but urged his teammate to remain committed to Brisbane.
“He is quality when he’s on and you need those quality players to win comps. Birdy at full flight is someone we want to have on the field,” Lodge said.
– Travis Meyn