Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge hasn't heard anything that would suggest contracted ruckman Tim English would be seeking a move away from the Whitten Oval.
A report earlier in the week indicated English will be potentially sought after by GWS, who have agreed to let Kieren Briggs walk, with Richmond looming as his next destination.
Fuelling the report is that the star Bulldogs' partner, Rudi Ellis, has signed with the NSW Swifts in the Super Netball.
“We haven't seen or heard anything internally that gives it any credence,” Beveridge said.
“I think he will (see out his contract); he's not intimating that he's unhappy. He's been a tremendous servant for a long period of time.
“We're pretty secure in the knowledge that Tim's going to be here for a fair bit longer.
“It's probably not a time to be dealing in hypotheticals … I'd rather not speculate. I think all the silly season stuff - we're not trying to be involved in it; (we will) play as long as we can, and then we'll be under more pressure to answer some of those questions.
“But right now I'd like to focus on the game.”
Staying on English, Beveridge all but confirmed his star ruck will take his place in Friday's historic Wildcard Round clash against Collingwood at the MCG.
The 26-year-old has been sidelined since Round 22 with a knee injury, but has pushed strongly to the line. His coach hinted at reduced game time given his interrupted preparation.
Beveridge also indicated that key forward Aaron Naughton will face the Pies.
“Pretty good, they trained yesterday and look like they're going to come up,” Beveridge said
“It's important because we're down on the big men, so if one of them couldn't play, then we need to be a bit inventive like we were last week.
“I thought Ryan Gardner did a really good job in the role he played, even though it was for a reduced minute, so that was fantastic for the team.
“Based on who is available and who we're coming up against, Collingwood aren't a super tall team anyway, so it's not a huge issue.
“But definitely that ruck challenge remains every week … (Tim) has had a little bit of time off, so you'd have to say he'd be a fraction compromised.
“We'll work through his game time with him, but hopefully he can play at least 70 per cent of the game if he makes it to the line, which it looks like he will.”
