Billy’s future is up in air
BILLY Slater’s future remains in limbo, with the Melbourne Storm superstar directing his attention on this season.
Slater, 34, yesterday said the possibility of retiring on top – with a premiership ring – had not crossed his mind.
“It’s all physical for me, I’ve won premierships before, it’s not the be all and end all,” Slater said.
“It’s about whether I feel like I can go around again physically, and if I can do that, I’ll be wearing a purple jersey next year.”
It was revealed last week that Storm chief executive Dave Donaghy travelled to Sydney to meet with Slater’s manager George Mimis. Slater yesterday said that he has not spoken to the club about next year.
“I’ll sit down with my family and work it out,” Slater said.
“What’s right for myself and whether I can contribute to the team next year 100 per cent, if that answer’s yes that’s when I’ll go to the club.”
Slater spent the past two finals’ series watching from the sidelines after back-to-back shoulder reconstructions.
The No.1 returned this year in sizzling form, leading Storm in offloads and try assists.
While mentally prepared to play for another “three years”, Slater wants to make the “right decision”.
“It’s (contract status) not a focus for me, it’s not a priority for me,” Slater said.
“The priority for me is enjoying this season, I’ve sat on the sidelines the last two finals series and this year I’ve got an opportunity to play.
“I’m really looking forward to playing my best football and for me to do that I need to
focus on each game ... if next year comes around, and I feel like I can contribute to the team and I want to play on, I’ll be standing here next year but until then I’m just going to focus on enjoying the moment and enjoying what I have.”
Slater warned against Storm resting players with two games to play before finals.
Cooper Cronk and Tim Glasby were left out the 32point win over Newcastle nursing “bumps and bruises”.
“I wouldn’t imagine anyone would be getting a break over the next two weeks unless it’s forced,” Slater said.
“I think the next two weeks for us is about building momentum and creating good habits that we’ve already created over the season so you can’t just turn up in September and turn it all on, you need to be playing consistent football leading into it.”