Dragons step back from deal with Izzy

ST GEORGE Illawarra has sensationally pulled out of the Israel Folau deal just 24 hours after publicly flagging its intention to sign the dual international but Folau will continue to hunt for a new club.

The Dragons informed the NRL of the club’s decision on Wednesday night after the club’s board met and opted against pursuing Folau.

It is understood the Dragons were reluctant to again put the club in the spotlight given where it has been in recent season and the lengthy process to get Folau (pictured) to the club was deemed too risky.

There was also some sponsor and fan backlash, while the signs from head office also pointed to a reluctance to allow the 31-year-old back into the game.

The Dragons board had given the allclear for the club to pursue Folau and discussions were advanced with the parties agreeing on a two-year deal worth $1 million and included strict social media rules.

The Dragons were awaiting guidance from the NRL which indicated it was going to give Folau every chance to prove he was fit to return.

ARLC chairman Peter V’landys had earlier indicated he was willing to meet with Folau but doubled down on his stance that there was no room in the NRL “for anyone that wants to promote lowering people’s self-esteem”.

“I will meet nobody or see nobody until there is an application,” V’landys said. “I am not going to be party to fishing expeditions. When they make an application, when they try and register a contract, we will go through that like we do every other person.”

As it stands Folau also has a year to run on his current contract with French Super League club Catalans but he is seeking a release on compassionate grounds.

There is no chance Folau will return to France and sources have suggested that a release is expected in the next 24 to 48 hours.