FRANK IS OFF SUNS’ RADAR

Damen Francis

March 14 2014

Shepparton News

Hometown hero Frankie Lagana has turned down the opportunity to join Shepparton-based National Premier Leagues club Goulburn Valley Suns.

The player and club were unable to agree to terms and Lagana confirmed yesterday he would remain at Green Gully in a coaching capacity.

Earlier this week, Lagana, 29, told The News he was excited about the prospect of joining the Suns, but last night said he had not put pen to paper at the time.

It appears club officials jumped the gun in confirming the move a done deal.

The talented midfielder said he would not be playing at the Cavaliers and has not been included on the club’s roster, which still has two free spots.

‘‘I’ve got some pretty good job commitments within coaching in Melbourne and the club were trying to put a deal together in some capacity to keep me involved at the club and coaching, but it just didn’t come to fruition,’’ Lagana said.

‘‘I’m involved at Green Gully and Maribyrnong Sports College. It’s a very professional environment to be in and I’m getting a lot of coaching experience and I couldn’t drop what I was doing here in Melbourne to commit to the Suns unfortunately.

‘‘I wish the team luck and I hope one day I can be involved on a regular basis, but for now it’s not going to happen.’’

Lagana said he remained on good terms with the Suns and in close communication with club adviser Melvyn Wilkes.

It is a major disappointment for the fledgling club on the eve of its opening match against Oakleigh Cannons, but Wilkes said the door remained open for Lagana to join the club in the future.