Greg Inglis sounded out Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy about a shock return to the Storm before re-signing with South Sydney, the Kangaroos centre has revealed.
Rabbitohs skipper Inglis last week recommitted to Souths until the end of 2020.
But not before he seriously considered a move back to the Storm or to Brisbane, the club he initially intended to join after exiting Melbourne at the end of 2010 before joining Souths.
The 29-year-old Inglis made his NRL debut at the Storm under Bellamy as an 18-year-old and was keen to link with his former mentor.
“Brisbane was a genuine thought, I even thought about Melbourne,” Inglis said.
“I rang Craig up and had a few chats about heading back down south but I couldn’t be happier that my future is settled.”
Inglis’ wife Sally gave birth to their second child daughter Quinn Sybella on Monday. The Queensland star said he his family’s desire to stay in Sydney held sway.
“We have two kids now so we had to think about what’s best for them,” he said.
“Our oldest one is two, so by the contract finishes up he’ll be starting school.
“We’d been in talks since coming out of the Origin series. I’m glad it’s finally done and my future’s settled for the next four years. I know I’ll be in Sydney and my family is happy.”
Despite an ongoing knee problem he will have to manage until the end of his career, Inglis will stay at fullback for Souths, resisting a move to the centres.
He played at fullback, five-eighth and centre for Souths during their disappointing 2016 season.
“It was one of those years where you could play around with positions,” he said
“We never really had concrete spots and that throws the whole side out.
“Save my legs and knees? I don’t think so. I’ve got four years left in the game so I want to give it everything I’ve got. I’d like to be staying at fullback. I think it’s best for the side and for myself.”
Worlds Biggest
Guest
GI had his best season for the Bunnies in 2014 in particular the Final series. He was outstanding, no coincidence this was a big factor in winning the Premiership. I just feel he doesn't turn up on a consistent basis. Slater would be great most weeks and at least very good every week. That is the hallmark of a great player. GI is a freak on his day which invariably entails wearing a Maroon Jersey and sometimes Green & Gold. I want to see that each week in the Red & Green.
Chook
Guest
I hope not....
Stormtrooper
Guest
Have always thought that Inglis has not been the footballer he was when he played at the Storm ... hasn't quite found the connections on the field at Souths as he did with Slater, Cronk and Smith ... Not sure the captain role is his mantra either - a distraction I believe ... Now Boyd is keeping him from his #1 dream for state and country ... Must be a thorn in his side considering the glorification he was receiving two years ago ... Greg Inglis would not have found a fullback position at the Storm or Bronco's ... Playing fullback at Souths hasn't really come to fruition for him - well not in 2016 at least ... Will be interesting to see how he performs in the centres for Australia this time round. Question is, have we seen the best of GI?
Worlds Biggest
Guest
actually I'm a lot happier Reyno has extended his deal than GI. Reyno on current deal is underpaid whilst GI is seriously overpaid for what they contribute to team. We must sign Musgrove as a matter of priority. Happy enough GI has re signed but only if we see the GI from 2013 & 2014 Club form.
Chook
Guest
Sorry Con....do you think we are overstating the facts
Con Scortis
Roar Guru
Steady on!!
MAX
Guest
The majority of my misguided relatives are Souths supporters. When I point out to them that Inglis had spoken of the great honour it was to be made Captain of Souths. If he were genuine, he would not even consider moving to another club and in doing so is revealed his true opinion of the team's future. His Rep. duties will take top priority, Souths a fill in. They want my head on a plate. Meanwhile back at Belmore.
harambe
Guest
I would tend to agree with you, hes probably not worth 400K+ based on his last few seasons, what club though, if they had room and he wanted to play for them wouldn't sign him? But what we all think on these boards and reality aren't one and the same..
Chook
Guest
Why wouldn't they have room? I don't think he is worth more than 250K based on his performances over the last 2 years.
harambe
Guest
Haha! Similar to my thoughts! Wouldn't have thought the storm would have anywhere near the room needed in their cap atm for a marquee like inglis...and the calibre of their 'support cast' isnt all that dissimilar to what they had back in 09/10. Having the 'big 4' back would have been a nostalgia trip for sure though..
The Barry
Roar Guru
They were out of boats though...