St Kilda has shot down any prospects that the club would pursue disgraced former North Melbourne player Tarryn Thomas.
Thomas had lunch with St Kilda list manager Graeme Allen in Carlton on Tuesday, according to 9News Melbourne.
The two met on Lygon Street, with the Saints confirming that the lunch did take place.
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On the eve of the 2024 season, the Kangaroos axed the troubled player after he was initially suspended by the league for 18 matches for alleged inappropriate behaviour towards women.
Thomas spent much of the 2023 season also bouncing from controversy to controversy, but has again been linked to another rival club.
Tarryn Thomas during a Kangaroos training session in 2023. Getty
It comes after Geelong and Essendon were among clubs who expressed interest in Thomas’ footballing abilities earlier in the season.
But now, Saints chief executive Carl Dilena released a statement on behalf of the club, clarifying their stance on Thomas.
“I wish to provide clarity on our club’s position regarding contact between a club employee and former North Melbourne player, Tarryn Thomas,” Dilena said in the statement.
“The football department pursues a number of players, as it is our job to find the best talent to fit our team and club.
Head of Talent and Acquisition, Graeme Allan and List Manager Stephen Silvagni look on during a St Kilda training session in February 2024. Getty
“Following a course of due diligence, I can confirm that St Kilda will not be pursuing Tarryn Thomas.”
The statement came after Saints coach Ross Lyon ignored questions regarding Thomas, during his weekly press conference.
Thomas is due in court on November 21.
