Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has poured cold water on claims that Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is eyeing a move to Sydney, insisting the young forward remains part of the club’s long-term plans.
On Tuesday night, a Nine Network report suggested the former No.1 draft pick, who is under contract until the end of 2026, was keen to join the Swans.
But Beveridge was quick to play down the speculation.
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“Take it with a grain of salt”
“Just take any speculation in regards to any player with a grain of salt, that’s the way we approach it,” Beveridge said. “He’s our player. We’ll do our best to continue to look at what’s right for him and look after him. I’ve got no thoughts that he won’t be here next year.”
Ugle-Hagan hasn’t played this season and remains on personal leave from the club. He recently spent time at a health retreat in northern New South Wales and posted a training montage on social media that appeared to show signs of recovery, both mentally and physically.
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Beveridge welcomed the update, saying: “I’m taking that as a positive… with the new challenges and the commitment to going away and focusing on his own wellbeing and his life journey. Hopefully he’s got some things in a bit more of an order, and that can propel him into his footy yet at some point.”
The Bulldogs also received a boost this week with forward Sam Darcy expected to return from a knee injury for next week’s clash with St Kilda.