8 Dec 2015

Roberts wants to leave Titans after forgery saga

2:17 pm on 8 December 2015

The Gold Coast centre James Roberts has rejected the offer a new contract and told the National Rugby League club he wants to play elsewhere following the forgery saga that has rocked the Titans.

The Titans believed they'd re-signed the Dally M centre-of-the-year, who scored 16 tries in 2015, but it was torn up by the NRL after former football manager Scott Clark, who has since resigned, admitted to forging Roberts's signature on the paperwork.

James Roberts

James Roberts Photo: Photosport

But the club's hopes of keeping the former South Sydney and Penrith player, who has played the best football of his chequered career under coach Neil Henry, have now been dashed after he knocked back a legitimate new offer on Monday night.

"It's obviously disappointing we are in this situation as we viewed James as part of the future of this club," Henry said in a statement.

"I'm sure he will concede that his improved form in 2015 is a testament to the hard work and the interest several people have taken in his welfare on and off the field which has enabled him to play his best football.

"I can only wish him continued success wherever he decides to play."

The news is a huge blow to the Titans who were confident of keeping Roberts as they look to rebuild the club following a drug scandal earlier this year with several players charged with supplying cocaine.

-AAP