Gold Coast Titan Chris Walker has completed his football resurrection
By Peter Badel
April 19, 2009
Two years ago he was depressed, battling alcoholism and fighting to save his National Rugby League career. But Chris Walker's inspirational footballing resurrection is complete.
The winger set to be handed a new deal by the Gold Coast.
Titans boss Michael Searle says he is keen to reward Walker's on and off-field rehabilitation with a contract until the end of next year.
The development is a major boost for the former Origin flyer, whose NRL days appeared numbered after his much-publicised battle with alcohol and anxiety.
It is understood Walker will be offered a one-year deal.
The 29-year-old's form over the next eight to 10 weeks will determine whether he gets a fulltime contract or an incentive-based deal.
Significantly, the Titans will not insert any clauses related to booze or behaviour, proof the club is confident Walker is no longer a high risk.
"I'd like to see Walks stay with the club," Searle said.
"It's our intention to sit down and talk to him about his future and whether we can come up with an affordable deal that is good for both parties.
"Chris Walker has been a success story for us. He's been great for us off the field, he's been absolutely brilliant, he's really turned his life around and we'd like to recognise that.
"In saying that, we have a good group of young blokes coming through. We have David Mead, Kevin Gordon and Shannon Walker, but at the moment Chris is playing some good footy.
"There's no rush. He's only played three games, but I'd like him to be here next year."
Walker's manager Chris Orr contacted Searle last week about a new deal.
Orr wants a two-year deal for his client, but a 12-month extension is more likely.
The former Bronco has played only nine games in two years at the club due to a glut of injuries but is adamant he is not a spent force.
"I've made a call to Michael Searle, I'd like to have a chat to him about a new deal," Orr said.
"Based on the way he's turned his life around, Walks deserves another deal. He's loved by the whole community, he's gone way above the call of duty to prove himself to the Titans."
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