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Pretorius wants to be stay the Force
NICK TAYLOR JOHANNESBURG, The West Australian May 4, 2010, 7:09 am
WA News / Mal Fairclough © Enlarge photo
Western Force marquee signing Andre Pretorius, his season ended before it began by a serious hamstring injury, wants the chance to repay the club.
The Force have made no secret that they are chasing Reds playmaker Quade Cooper but their chances are slim.
Former Springbok Pretorius is well aware that the Force is looking for an on-field general for the long term, but would not hesitate if they asked him to stay and jump start his career.
"I'd sign in a heartbeat if they gave me a contract again but I understand the dilemma they are in with my situation," he said.
Force rugby manager Mitch Hardy, who met Pretorius' manager in Johannesburg, said last week that a line had not been drawn through the 31-year-old for next season.
"I don't have any expectations although there is a certain amount of hope. I'd love to stay," Pretorius said.
"I know they are looking for Quade but I'll have a chat, see what they offer and take it from there."
Pretorius was back in Johannesburg last week for his first visit since signing with the Force and saw his new side victorious 33-12 at Ellis Park.
"The big reason I'd really like to stay is that I only got to wear the jersey once (in a pre-season game) and I didn't get to wear it in Super 14," Pretorius said.
"It's not about anything other than me wanting to play with the guys I have become mates with and being part of the club.
"It never felt like I was injured because I was always part of the team.
"They pulled me in, made me a part of the team and I'm grateful for that."
Pretorius ripped the hamstring from the bone of his left leg on the eve of this year's Super 14 season. He had signed a one-year deal and expected to move on to Japan.
That door has been closed because of his injury.
"If you look at the pre-season I had it was, probably the best pre-season I had of my whole career," he said.
"It was just so anti-climatic that I never got to perform and show what I could do."
He has had talks with clubs in France and one back in his home country.
"At the moment my focus is just getting the leg right. I think the rest will take care of itself," he said.
"I'm in a bit of a chicken and egg situation at the moment.
"I'm looking to broaden my horizons, maybe go to Europe or maybe come back to South Africa.
"There are options but I'd like to stay and play with the boys."
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