Martin quits RichmondBy Peter Ryan
afl.com.au
12:14pm AEST Monday, September 16, 2013The shock decision "to pursue offers from other clubs" has come after months of negotiations between Richmond and the 22-year-old midfielder.
The Tigers had been confident of retaining Martin but were unwilling to shift from their long-term player payment strategy to secure him.
Football manager Dan Richardson told richmondfc.com.au he was very disappointed with the decision.
"Given the considerable effort we have put into Dustin’s development both on and off the field, and our efforts to retain him all season, we are extremely disappointed with this decision," he said.
Martin played 86 games and kicked 90 goals in four years with Richmond.
He was third in the club best and fairest in 2011, and many clubs will be interested in securing his services.
Greater Western Sydney is an obvious possible destination and clubs such as Carlton and Essendon may also be interested.
The Giants chased Martin during 2011 but no club has publicly expressed its desire to pursue him this season.
Dynamic on the field, he has learned many lessons off the field as the Tigers tried to provide structure to his life.
Richardson said the club was proud of the way Martin had developed as a footballer and person at Richmond but they respected his right to pursue other opportunities.
Martin's manager Ralph Carr declined to comment when contacted by AFL.com.au
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2013-09-16/martin-quits-tigers
