The Western Force has denied claims it has a player revolt on its hands, but has admitted Wallabies star Matt Giteau could leave the Super 14 franchise.
The Force has denied knowledge of any falling out between coach John Mitchell and his players, despite constant speculation a number of stars could be on their way out.
Giteau is reportedly considering a switch to his former club the ACT Brumbies, but not because of a split with the former All Blacks mentor.
He lost out when one of his third-party sponsors, failed technology company Firepower, didn’t fulfil its commitments.
Firepower had also failed to pay a number of other Australian sportspeople it sponsored, including the NBL’s now defunct Sydney Kings.
Giteau is now believed to be looking for new third-party deals to keep him in Perth, but the off-contract star could also make a return to Canberra.
“We have a significant number of players coming off contract,” Force chief executive Greg Harris told The Australian.
“That’s an important factor. We also have a coach who is a well-proven coach.
“There are a number of issues. The biggest is the dollar value. I don’t think John Mitchell is a factor, I really don’t.”
