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Nick Taylor, The West AustralianUpdated July 28, 2012, 4:30 am
- The Western Force were last night unable to douse speculation that captain David Pocock had agreed to sign with rival Super Rugby club the Brumbies.
Pocock told the Force he expected to have an answer on his future today but he refused to comment on reports that he had already agreed to sign for the Brumbies, dismissing them as speculation.
Force chief executive Vern Reid had not managed to talk to Pocock last night, heightening speculation he was departing the besieged club, which continues to underachieve.
If Pocock quits it will bring an end a disastrous season and leave the Force in disarray as Waratahs coach Michael Foley is only likely to accept a three-year deal to join the club if the Wallaby flanker re-signs.
If Pocock walks away from the club he joined as a 17-year-old apprentice in 2005 it would leave them without a captain or a coach, despite having 17 weeks to find a successor to Richard Graham.
It would also damage their ability to attract world-class players.
The Brumbies have long been touted as favourites to sign Pocock but several senior Force players who support Foley spoke to him about staying under his leadership.
The Force have offered Pocock the best possible financial deal and worked hard to recruit players that would have suited Pocock including Wallabies scrum-half Will Genia and centre Ben Tapuai, both who decided to stay with the Reds.
A major shake-up of the Force football department is also under way. The Force have not been able to secure a coach since Graham told them he was quitting for the Queensland Reds.
Initial talks then broke down with Foley who has a short-term "get out" clause with the Tahs but he was subsequently tabled another deal.
His job was on the line at the Tahs after a poor season but after a presentation to the club board he was assured of the second year of his contract.
If Foley turns down the Force they would have few serious options left and may have to return to their former foundation assistant coach John Mulvihill who was interviewed but failed to get the job.
He took charge when John Mitchell was sidelined during the 2009 player revolt and is currently preparing Japanese club Mitsubishi Dynaboars for their new season.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-...with-brumbies/