Melbourne Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes has admitted he and his teammates are leaving no stone unturned to ensure Cameron Munster remains at the club.
Munster, who is out of contract at the end of next season, is facing a dilemma over where his NRL future lies, amid reports the Storm are asking him to take a significant pay cut to stay at the club.
The 27-year-old Origin star is being chased hard by by the NRL’s newest franchise, the Dolphins, who are believed to be preparing a deal for Munster which could see him earn up to $1.2 million a year.
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While Munster is yet to make a definitive call on his future, Hughes said he was desperate for the star man to remain a member of the Storm, particularly after a dazzling performance against the Sharks.
“Yeah 100 per cent we are in his ear, but he has got to do what he’s got to do,” Hughes said.
“It’s his decision. Us as a playing group and a club we want him to stay obviously.
“I’ll be putting a little bit of pressure on him, but I’m not going to be putting too much pressure on him.
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“He has got to what he has got to do and he has still got two more years. He has still got this year and next year.
“I’m in his ear a lot but he has got a young family and he has got to do what is best for himself. But I want him here.”
After a series of off-field issues, Munster made notable lifestyle changes, including cutting out alcohol, and Storm coach Craig Bellamy credited the changes with his uptick in form.
“I have said it a few times, but probably the best thing that has ever happened to him was last year,” he said.
“When he did what he did to help himself be better and it has worked a treat to be quite honest.
“He is still the larrikin. We all love that about him, but now there just seems to be a little bit more control around his life in footy and his life in general. I think that’s a great thing.
“His consistency this year has been at a real high level and a consistent level.
“I think he will just get better and better.”