Why Johns still 'cannot understand' the Xerri-Bulldogs saga

It’s been nearly a week since the initial article from News Corp about Bronson Xerri reportedly wanting an immediate release from the Bulldogs.

But Matty Johns is still unable to understand how the situation between the two parties has come to be.

Much of the noise surrounding the Bulldogs in the build-up to their 14-10 win against the Raiders was on Xerri.

On Saturday, it was believed that he was ready to ask for an immediate release from the club.

But that was quickly quashed by Bulldogs GM of Football, Phil Gould, saying that neither the 25-year-old or his manager has asked to leave.

While the centre never put a release request in, it has since been learnt that Xerri was discontent with the club following a conversation with coach Cameron Ciraldo, who told him he’d be dropped from the NRL side, citing his unprofessionalism.

That news has left Johns surprised, considering the talent Xerri possess.

“This comes as a real surprise to me,” he told SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns.

“I’m a huge fan of Bronson Xerri. He served his suspension, and the moment he came back, I saw him in the NSW Cup for the Dogs, he was just outstanding. He carried that into the NRL.

“He’s a multi-dimensional centre in the fact that he’s great in yardage, he’s a great finisher, he’s robust.

“If something happened to NSW last year, like an injury crisis in the centres, I would have no hesitation throwing him in (the side). I see him as that good of a player.

“I’ll be honest, I cannot understand this.”

The 1997 Premiership player also noted the strangeness of how the club has handled the situation, considering he’s still contracted till next season.

“The really strange one, which says a lot about this, they said, ‘We’re not going to extend you at the end of next season’,” he added.

“For me, that’s bizarre.

“The ability he’s got, halfway through next year, he could be the best centre in the game, you don’t know?

“To say from 18 months away going, ‘Hey mate, just letting you know that you’re not going to be extended’.

“He’s basically saying, ‘You’re probably better off going now’.”

Xerri is set to feature in the Bulldogs’ NSW Cup match this Saturday.

They take on Canberra at Raiders Belconnen with the match starting at 3pm AEDT.