Wallabies captain George Gregan has thrown his support behind embattled back Mat Rogers, stating his belief that whichever code he opts to play for next year will get the best out of him.
Rogers will meet with Australian and NSW Rugby Union officials on Tuesday to discuss his future amid speculation he wants his out of his contract because of a lack of opportunities at fly-half with the Wallabies.
The rugby league convert has already signed to play for new NRL franchise the Gold Coast Titans in 2008, but is now believed to be unhappy playing rugby union, and wants to move to the Titans even earlier.
Gregan would not speculate on Rogers’ decision, but said if he opts to continue playing rugby union, he would do so with 100% commitment.
"If he’s committed to play rugby next year, he’ll play well enough and I can see him playing within the Australian colours," Gregan told reporters.
"But that’s just a decision he’s got to make and he’s got to sit down with the appropriate people and make that call.
"I know he’s committed to play for the Titans in 2008 and I know he’s pretty committed to win a World Cup as well."
ARU chief executive Gary Flowers had said earlier in the week that any player who does not give complete commitment on the field devalued the Australian jersey.
While Gregan agreed with the sentiments, he did not feel Rogers had done that.
"I think representing your country in any sport is the greatest honour you can have so there’s a fair bit of merit in those statements," Gregan said.
"I think everyone who dons the Wallabies jumper is very proud to do that.
"He’s a wonderful player, world class, he’s won Test matches for us over the years and he’s a very talented and skilled player and I think it’s just been evidenced in the way he’s played over the years.
"I don’t think (the saga) devalues the Australian jersey because everyone who puts on that Wallabies jumper is extremely proud and extremely privileged to have received that accolade."
