Melbourne free agent James Frawley says his future tied to Paul Roos decision

PRIZED Melbourne free agent James Frawley says whether coach Paul Roos extends his tenure into a third season will be a “big factor” in his own decision to re-sign.

ALICE SPRINGS, AUSTRALIA - MAY 30: James Frawley gestures to fans during a Melbourne Demons AFL training session on May 30, 2014 in Alice Springs, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

PRIZED Melbourne free agent James Frawley says whether coach Paul Roos extends his tenure into a third season will be a “big factor” in his own decision to re-sign.

Frawley said he remained in no rush to make a decision on his contract, preferring to concentrate on his game until the end of the season.

But the defender-turned-forward suggested Roos staying on for a third season as coach would play a part in his decision.

In a recent interview with the club’s website, Roos gave the strongest indication yet he would extend his two-year deal when he said “three years will see me out’’ as coach.

But the 2005 Sydney premiership coach said he was eager to remain involved with the Demons in some other role beyond then.

Frawley said he hoped Roos would stay on.

“It probably plays a part in it (my decision) and hopefully he does sign because he has been really good for us,’’ Frawley said.

“The way he has been going about it and the way the playing group has responded to him being the new coach has been very positive and very good.

“There are other factors in it as well, not just Roosy.

“But that would be a big factor because he is such a good coach and he brings great morale to the group, a lot of excitement and a lot of fun so that will probably play a part in it.’’

In his eighth season with the Demons, 25-year-old Frawley said winning form would also help sway his decision.

“If you have a look back the last few years we’ve been playing some pretty average footy and it gets pretty hard sometimes when you keep losing and getting beaten by a fair few points,’’ Frawley said.

“But definitely this year it’s been more positive and a lot more fun to come to the club and spend time with all the boys and the coaching group.

“It probably plays a part in it. There are a lot of things that play a part in the decision.

“I’m in no rush, I’m just concentrating on playing footy right at the moment.’’

Footy is fun again for the Dees under Paul Roos. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

Meanwhile, Melbourne defender Lynden Dunn has signed a new three-year deal with the Demons, tying him to the club until the end of 2017.

Dunn said he never considered leaving the Demons and was confident the club would be pushing for finals action in the next couple of years.

“It was nice to sign and put pen to paper. I’ve been really happy with my own form and the direction that the club is heading,’’ Dunn said yesterday.

“I’m a big believer that we can play finals within the coming years and I want to play finals with the Melbourne footy club.

“If we keep playing the way that we are at the moment and bridge the consistency in games and not have those 10-20 minute lapses, I don’t know why we couldn’t play finals next year or the year after definitely.

“This is my 10th season at the Demons now, they gave me a chance when I was a young fella when I was 17. I love the boys, I love the coaches and I love the club so I had no reason to leave.’’

Originally published as Melbourne free agent James Frawley says his future tied to Paul Roos decision