Richmond coach Adem Yze has dismissed “rumors” that Dustin Martin is heading to Gold Coast and clarified that the Tigers have not set a definite deadline for the superstar’s decision on his future.
Martin will miss the trip to face Fremantle due to a back injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Carlton, and his training has been limited this Thursday.
His future is once again under scrutiny, with questions arising about whether he will stay with Richmond, move elsewhere, or retire after the completion of his prominent seven-year contract at the end of the season.
Former coach Damien Hardwick hinted at a possible reunion with Martin at Gold Coast, suggesting clubs would be wise to consider recruiting him.
Yze dismissed former Melbourne teammate David Schwarz’s suggestion on SEN radio that Martin had already committed to joining the Suns on a two-year deal at season’s end, calling it mere speculation on Thursday.
“As I walked into the building today, he’s been upbeat and enjoying his time here,” Yze stated. “As I’ve consistently said, Dustin will make decisions about his future in the coming weeks.”
“We previously discussed aiming for late July or early August to finalize those decisions. However, our focus right now is on his well-being and ensuring he’s happy while he’s with us,” Yze added.
Regarding vice-captain Liam Baker’s decision to stay with Richmond or return to Western Australia, Yze emphasized they’re not pressuring him either.
“In the last six weeks, Dustin has been in a good mental space,” Yze noted. “We’ve agreed to not dwell on these decisions until later in the year. It’s crucial for players to feel energized when they’re here.”
Yze acknowledged the evolving nature of the industry, where teams approach potential recruits during the season, and expressed understanding that players take time to make well-considered decisions about their futures.
Martin, who engaged in light training alongside Tom Lynch, dealing with a hamstring issue, was eventually ruled out of the Fremantle clash due to concerns about his back and overall fitness for the game.