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Broncos leave Dragons call with McCullough

3 minute read

Brisbane have told experienced hooker Andrew McCullough to take some time away from the NRL club as he weighs up an offer to join St George Illawarra.

ANDREW MCCULLOUGH of the Broncos.
ANDREW MCCULLOUGH of the Broncos. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Experienced Brisbane hooker Andrew McCullough will be given time away from the NRL club to come to a decision over his playing future.

The 31-year-old has been offered a reported three-year deal by St George Illawarra, with the Broncos willing to release McCullough from the final year of his deal at Red Hill if he decides to join the Dragons.

The former Queensland State of Origin representative has made 260 NRL appearances for the Broncos over 12 years and is one of the longest-serving players in Kevin Walters' squad.

His future at the club has been under a cloud since a stint on loan at Newcastle last season and Walters has told him to take a break until he decides where he will play in 2021, with McCullough a no-show at Thursday's training session.

"Andrew's had an offer from a rival club so we've decided to let him sort himself out," Walters told reporters.

"We want a clear direction with our club and where we're heading the next few weeks and in to round one so we've given Andrew a couple of days off to sort himself out and see where he wants to play for 2021 and beyond."

While Walters says he'd be happy if McCullough knocks back the Dragons and opts to stay in Brisbane, he also refused to suggest a longer-term deal with the Broncos would be offered.

"We want to see him come back and play and play the way that Andrew McCullough can and I'm sure his future will be bright when he can do that," Walters said.

"We've made a decision on where we stand. It's up to now the rival club to see where they're at with things."

Along with Jake Turpin, the Broncos have also signed veteran hooker Issac Luke on a part-time deal while former Manly and Newcastle rake Danny Levi has signed with Queensland Cup side Norths Devils.

Walters also refused to rule out dipping into the player market if McCullough does leave.

"All rosters are moving all the time. They're changing, and ours is no different."

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