Buderus, Simpson look elsewhere
By Dean Ritchie
August 21, 2007 NEWCASTLE'S horror season worsened with revelations captain Danny Buderus is poised to cut short his Knights contract and that rival clubs have begun circling star forward Steve Simpson.
The two Knights champions have been caught up in the current Newcastle crisis of sinking morale, with Buderus publicly questioning coach Brian Smith's methods and Simpson angry at the club's treatment of Kirk Reynoldson.
Buderus is under contract until the end of next season with an option for 2009.
But it now seems certain Buderus will quit Newcastle at the end of next season and finish his stellar career in England.
Buderus has always wanted to play in Super League but the developments at the Knights under Smith has only hastened his desire to leave Australia.
Simpson is also known to be unhappy with the club's current problems, which were reflected in an embarrassing 46-12 loss to wooden spoon favourites Penrith last Sunday at EnergyAustralia Stadium.
A Test and State of Origin player, Simpson this year rejected a rich offer from Manly to sign a four-year deal with Newcastle.
But rival NRL clubs have contacted Simpson's manager George Mimis to ask whether the back rower is happy and keen to stay at the Knights.
There is little chance of Simpson being allowed to walk out for 2008 but may consider asking for a release the following year if the dramas in Newcastle do not dissipate.
Buderus and his manager, also Mimis, met on Friday in Newcastle to discuss his future.
Smith and Buderus have spoken about a range of issues in recent days but it is known Buderus is still uncomfortable with the club's direction.
Asked whether Buderus wanted an immediate release, Mimis said: "There is absolutely no merit to the concept that Danny wants out, none whatsoever.
"He's contracted to the club ongoing and will continue to captain the Knights.
"But Danny does have an option for 2009 and has always held a desire to play in England.
"If the right opportunity presents itself for 2009, then Danny would certainly consider it."
Mimis confirmed clubs had called him to discuss Simpson's future.
"Steve has not expressed any interest in leaving Newcastle, although a couple of clubs have shown an interest should circumstances change," Mimis said. "If Steve was to become available, they said they would have an interest."
Knights chief executive Steve Burraston last night said his club wanted Buderus to take up the 2009 option and stay a Knight for life.
"We'd love Danny to finish his career here," Burraston said.
"But players do have in the back of their minds playing in England."
http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22280475-23214,00.html
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