Greg Bird set to sign for Bradford Bulls
By Phil Rothfield | January 17, 2009 12:00am
AUSTRALIA'S Test utility star Greg Bird is on the verge of signing a contract with English club Bradford Bulls after having his contract terminated by the Cronulla Sharks.
Ending months of speculation, the former Test player's fate was last night revealed in a joint statement by his management and the Sharks.
He had been suspended by the club since August after being charged with assaulting girlfriend Katie Milligan and will appear in court in April.
The Daily Telegraph understands Bird has already agreed to terms with Bradford and leaves soon to continue his career in the UK Super League.
He had earlier negotiated with Wigan but the deal fell through at the last moment. Bradford officials agreed to allow Bird to return home in April to fight his charges in court.
As part of his contract termination with the Sharks it was agreed Bird could not play for a rival NRL club this year.
The statement said: "The two parties have today signed off on a document (Deed of Release) which releases both the Sharks and Greg Bird from their respective contractual obligations and arrangements.
"While the terms of the release are confidential, it can be confirmed that included in the conditions Greg Bird will not register an NRL contract for 2009 nor play for another NRL club during the 2009 season.
"The Sharks, Greg Bird and his management have agreed that following this press statement no further public comment will be made in relation to the details of the release."
Sharks boss Tony Zappia said he was pleased the Bird dramas had finally been settled.
"It's been a long-running saga - everyone can now move on," Zappia said.
The Sharks have already bought Bulldogs utility Reni Maitua to play in Bird's position at lock.
Sharks skipper Paul Gallen last night wished his former teammate all the best.
"As a good friend, I am glad Greg has found a club and can play football this year," Gallen said.
"His future has been unresolved for a long time now so it is good that we can all move on. I wish him the best of luck with his new club and also with his life because the last few months, I am sure, have been very hard for him.
"He is a great talent and I am sure he will be very good in the UK."
