Martin’s sunny outlook on deal
JACK Martin says his perception of the Suns has changed since last year and the current direction of the club will be the deciding factor when it comes to choosing whether to stay or leave.
Martin is the biggest name player to come off contract for Gold Coast this year and the 24-year-old has put off talks about any new potential deal until the end of the year.
History suggests when the club’s biggest stars hold off contract negotiations they tend to exit.
Gary Ablett, Dion Prestia, Jaeger O’Meara and most recently Tom Lynch and Steven May are examples.
But Martin said there was still hope for Suns fans that he could re-sign after what would be six AFL seasons with Gold Coast, citing the club’s changes as the greatest motivator.
“The direction the club is heading (will be the biggest factor),” Martin said. “There has been a lot change with the football department.
“A lot of players have left the footy club.
“When you look at it now there is a clear vision, a foundation set in place we have set.
“For not only us but generations and 10 years down the track. We are building a good foundation.”
Gold Coast have already resigned co-captains David Swallow and Jarrod Witts as well as leader Touk Miller.
Martin is among other key targets including Rory Thompson, Callum Ah Chee, Peter Wright and Sam Day who are yet to join them.
Martin is as happy as he has been at Gold Coast, a couple of early wins helps that, and it’s showing with his form on field.
Stars have left and football departments have changed multiple times but Martin said his perception of the Suns had already improved in the past year under coach Stuart Dew.
“They are definitely going down the right path,” Martin said. “Being 2-1 always helps.
“It’s nice to be winning but we have only played three games and we know it’s a long season and there’s lots of work to do.”
Dew said this week the club was happy to hold off contract talks with Martin until the end of the year and Martin declared he would put everything he could into helping lift the side.
“We are all comfortable with where it sits,” Martin said.
“The most important thing is we are all on the same page. I’m just going to let my footy do the talking.”
Martin has averaged 22 possessions so far this season while splitting his time between midfield and forward.