Judd turns back on Eagles
Jake Niall | September 16, 2007
WEST Coast captain Chris Judd is set to inform the Eagles today of his intention to move back home to Melbourne and seek a trade to a Victorian club.
In what will be one of the most significant departures in the game's modern history, Judd plans to inform the club he captained to a premiership of his desire to move back to Victoria to be with his family and friends.
Judd's wish to leave the Eagles is understood to be based upon his desire to be back in his home state, and is not money-related, given that he would be expected to earn similar — possibly even greater — amounts in Western Australia. His wish to go home is not a reflection on West Coast, either.
West Coast, however, remains "very optimistic" that it will retain Judd, who, when fit, is arguably the best player in the competition.
While coach John Worsfold yesterday spoke of his respect for Judd, even if he chose to leave, Nisbett added, "That's true, but we're also running a business" — perhaps a hint that the Eagles would be tough in any negotiation with the club Judd chose as his preferred destination.
While virtually all Melbourne clubs are expected to be interested in Judd, it is Carlton, Collingwood and Essendon that have made the initial running. Melbourne is preparing its pitch,
while Richmond will inevitably enter the fray.The Eagles will demand the highest price any club has received since the introduction of the draft system, and, in terms of picks and ladder position, Carlton — cashed up under Richard Pratt's presidency — is perhaps in the best position.
Judd is expected to command a salary that, once marketing is taken into account (additional services agreements), would exceed a million dollars per year and this does not take into account the substantial dollars he will receive outside football.
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