Somerville spurns move

May 15 2008 by Our Correspondent, Western Mail

THE Scarlets have failed in their bid to recruit All Blacks prop forward Greg Somerville, inset.

The 57-cap Crusaders tight-head has informed the Stradey outfit he has still not made a decision on whether to take up an overseas contract or stay in New Zealand.

Somerville, 30, is being chased by a number of clubs in France and England, and has also been linked with the Ospreys.

Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher said: “Greg has told me he cannot take up the opportunity with us.

“He has not fully decided whether to leave New Zealand and he realises we need an answer because we have to move on.

“He was very appreciative of us going out there, but can’t give us an answer.

“We will now look at other alternatives, as we still want to sign a top-quality prop, and we will make an announcement within the next week.

“We do have other irons in the fire.”