Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge laughed off speculation about Tim English’s future, labelling reports of his unrest “half a scoop of vanilla”.
English is contracted to the Bulldogs until 2029, but Hawthorn great Jordan Lewis called the All Australian ruckman open to the trade market.
The Bulldogs have proven a stronger side with English, winning seven of their nine games around his concussion this season.
Beveridge says the comment is from “left field” to everyone at the club.
“Old scoop Lewis, so Lewy, it’s like he’s gone up and given us half a scoop of vanilla,” Beveridge said with a smile.
“If he’s going to speculate and make statements, he’s got to give you the full scoop.
“Tim is contracted until the end of 2029, so a player of his ability and impact, he’s secure here.
“It came out of left field for us, didn’t know where it came from other than Lewy.
“I don’t know who he’s been talking to, but we’re not sure if there’s any accuracy in any of that.”
Beveridge also denies any friction between he and English, who was used out of position in the third quarter against Adelaide last week.
“Again, big surprise,” he said.
“Some of the things we were talking about this morning – where we need to improve – I’m having those conversations with all our players.
“They seem to be processing it pretty well, they’re determined to improve and Tim is no different.”
Western Bulldogs have also stated interest in playing a game for premiership points in India.
The Bulldogs have a strong multicultural footprint and are eager to grow that in the subcontinent.
Beveridge supports the venture but says there needs to be fixture considerations given the distance.
“I would. I reckon you’d have to time it maybe before a bye, that would be ideal,” he said.
“When you think about the Indian passion for cricket and the groundswell of attention that’s coming towards our game.
“They’ve got the grounds to be able to pull it off too, it would be pretty exciting.”
