Glenn McFarlane
From: Herald Sun
June 17, 2011 12:00AM
A LIFELONG affinity with Melbourne's western suburbs and a close family connection are likely to ensure Callan Ward rejects Greater Western Sydney and commits to a long-term future with the Western Bulldogs.
Despite his manager Paul Connors suggesting last week the 21-year-old might have to sacrifice up to $2 million to remain loyal to his club, Ward confirmed this week he wanted to secure a deal with the Bulldogs.
"I've loved the club ever since I started here," Ward said. "I was born in the western suburbs and I want to stay here.
"I see no reason to move. I just want to work out a deal with the Dogs and hopefully move on."
Ward said ideally he would have a new deal sorted out "sooner rather than later", but was not concerned about talk regarding his future.
"I try not to think about it too much, but it is hard to take it off my mind completely," he said. "I get a lot of texts and questions from my friends. They are all supportive. They know I am just concentrating on my football at the moment.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/af...-1226076768377