Brumbies fullback Jesse Mogg has left the door open for a return to Super Rugby after signing with French outfit Montpellier on a three-year deal.
In a YouTube video posted on Friday, Mogg said news of his departure at the end of the season had come out earlier than planned.
“I just personally wanted to let you guys know this will be my last season at the Brumbies and I’ll be heading offshore to France for the next three years,” he said.
“I moved down to Canberra at the end of 2009 as a skinny kid. I built a home in Canberra and some great friends and memories.
“I’d just like to thank you guys, especially the Brumbies members, for the times we’ve had together at Canberra Stadium and all around the world.”
In Cape Town for Sunday’s crunch Super Rugby match against the Stormers, the 25-year-old also hinted at a return after his French stint.
“This isn’t the end, it’s just a little departure and hopefully not for a very long time,” he said.
“Again, I’d just like to thank you for what you guys have done for me, and what Canberra’s done for me, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life.”
Mogg will join current teammate and Wallabies halfback Nic White at Montpellier, and reunite with former Brumbies coach Jake White and captain Ben Mowen.
Utah
Guest
You are right. Chris Latham was very dodgy in defence early in his career. But in attack he was amazing. His defence improved immensely over time. I have no doubt Jesse will improve defensively. To what degree only time will tell.
Utah
Guest
Yep, well said. Very skillful player. Certainly not the finished product, but still so young. I remember when Billy Slater first came on the representative scene. His defence and decision making was terrible. He developed into one of the best defensive fullbacks ever. You can teach that. You can't teach pace and attacking flair.
Not Bothered
Guest
He isnt dependable.
James
Guest
I like Jesse Mogg. He reminds a lot of Chris Latham at times. Relaxed but dependable. A lot has been made of his defense but there are aspects of his game where he excels. Unfortunately he was playing at the same time where the media is full of love for Israel Falou. As a result he has made a choice which I believe will be beneficial to him. All the best!
Not Bothered
Guest
Mogg Betham Higginbotham Kepu AAC Genia White Cooper Alo-Emile Horwill Cummins Foley Wykes Palu? Burgess and many more.
PeterK
Roar Guru
He will be missed, very good player, under rated IMO. Just needed to get his nerves right and be able to play under pressure better to make it at the next level.
ethan
Guest
Catrakillis, Nic White and Mogg, playing under Jake White. Hope Montpellier fans like to watch kicking!
RobC
Roar Guru
Best wishes Mogg. Looks like the Jake White / Brumbies team is building up in MontP. Any Sharks players heading that way?
Rob na Champassak
Roar Guru
Absolutely. Could turn out to be a good career move for him, I certainly hope so.
twocreeks
Guest
Good career choice for him. Strangely he didn't have the temperament for the next level. A curious mixture of desperation and disinterest. Maybe a few years away will serve him well.
riddler
Guest
Good luck to the guy.. He is only 25, a few years playing in the French league and European comps will be a good experience for him.. And if he goes back to Oz a better player, win win for everybody.. Always seemed like a nice guy to me.. wish him well. .
nickoldschool
Roar Guru
Completely agree MJB, some aspects of Mogg's game definitely needed work but that's this kind of players that make SR a great comp to watch. Big loss to the brumbies and SR. he was my favourite brumby.
MJB
Guest
Good luck to him. He's been good at times but never exactly incredible for Australia. There does seem like a lot of untapped potential.