Tony Williams struggling with thought of leaving Manly mates

IN-DEMAND forward Tony Williams is torn between his Manly teammates, the wishes of his family and the lure of former coach Des Hasler.

IN-DEMAND forward Tony Williams is torn between his Manly teammates, the wishes of his family and the lure of former coach Des Hasler.

On Sunday, big T-Rex had agreed to join Canterbury on a deal worth $200,000 more over three seasons that what the Sea Eagles were offering.

By Monday he had changed his mind.

It is understood members of Williams' family want him to join former mentor Hasler - the man credited with transforming him from reserve-grade footballer to NSW Origin star - at the Bulldogs, but he is reluctant to leave his Manly teammates.

There were suggestions he would announce his move to Canterbury on Wednesday, but again nothing.

His manager, Isaac Moses, wants the rampaging back-rower to make a decision by the end of the weekend.

"It's a very difficult decision - there's never been a tighter bunch of blokes than the Manly players," Moses said. "That's why it is such a big call because Tony is close to all of them."

Manly still have hooker Matt Ballin and forward Darcy Lussick unsigned for next season, with the latter believed to be joining Parramatta.

If Williams stays, Ballin may be squeezed out. If Williams leaves, Manly will have more room in their salary cap to retain the Queensland hooker.

Those close to Williams are still unsure which way he will go. Much will depend on how much his family influences him.

Williams has a strong friendship with a number of Manly players, most notably the Stewart brothers, Brett and Glenn, since moving from western Sydney to his Dee Why home.

Manly officials were already disappointed at losing utility player Dean Whare to Penrith this week.

The deal was struck last week but kept secret until after the two side played at Centrebet Stadium last Sunday.

Williams is out with a back injury and will miss the Sea Eagles' big match against St George Illawarra at Brookvale Oval tonight.

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