Cats still talking about Motlop’s future
GEELONG is still no closer to signing out-of-contract midfielder Steven Motlop despite remaining in “ongoing” talks with his management team.
The 26-year-old was unable to find a willing suitor when the Cats put him on the trade table at the end of last year and has struggled to show the level of consistency the club would have been hoping for in 2017.
But Geelong football man- ager Steven Hocking said Motlop was committed to achieving the ultimate success at Simonds Stadium.
“We’re always in discussion with (player) managers about their players and our players, that is an ongoing communication that is happening,” Hocking said.
“As far as Steven goes and his management group, everyone is committed to seeing out this year and having success this year.
“Beyond that, we’re not going to discuss what it looks like.”
The price tag on Motlop’s head, reportedly as much as $500,000-$600,000 for this season, was seen as a key reason for him not finding a new club for this year.
But he has since been linked to the Gold Coast in a potential trade with the Suns for former Cat Gary Ablett.
It is understood both Richmond and North Melbourne are interested in his services for next season as well.
His indifferent form in 2017 — including laying just four tackles in the past four games — has frustrated fans and media commentators, but Hocking said Motlop was working hard to turn things around.
“Steve knows where he is at and I’ve seen the work that Steve has been doing inside the club, and he is certainly committed to playing his best football,” Hocking said.
“I know that and know he has been working on that, and sometimes it just takes time to turn that around, but we’re confident he’ll do that.”
In other contract news, backman Jed Bews appears closer to getting a deal done, with his performance on Adelaide small forward Eddie Betts cementing his spot as Geelong’s best small defender.
“Jed is playing really well,” Hocking said.
“All the coaches are really happy with how he’s been playing. His last month has been excellent.”