What next Warren?

The situation regarding Warren Whiteley is more complex than recent reports suggest, according to Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli, following claims that the veteran player’s career might be over.

“I’ve read the reports on Warren but can’t confirm or deny that, and Warren hasn’t told me directly what the current situation is,” Straeuli said yesterday.

According to News24, the chairman of the Lions’ business arm, Altman Allers, had said Whiteley might be considering retirement after his knee ligament injury failed to respond to treatment, and he was to be employed as a coach.

According to Straeuli, however, nothing had been finalised yet as they were still in the process of assessing the coaching structures.

Whiteley might also face more medicals before a final decision was to be made.

“The matter should have been addressed through the proper communication channels via our media liaison Annemie (Bester) which didn’t happen, which is something I’m extremely unhappy about,” Straeuli said.

If Whiteley’s playing days were over, his potential future role had not yet been confirmed.

“Whether he could be involved in an assistant or a forward coaching role is something that is still under discussion,” Straeuli said.

“It would be unfair on the other coaches to discuss that role in the media, whether as a consultant or whatever.”

Straeuli did, however, confirm that former Bok prop Jannie du Plessis was at their offices to discuss a potential contract with the Lions.

“Jannie came over here and what I can say at this stage is that he did pass his medical examination,” he said.

“But signing a contract is something that has not yet been finalised.