BOMBER CHAMP CONSIDERS CONTRACT

The club has offered the deal to the 31-year-old premiership player and Coleman medalist to sign, but the 270-game champion wants to weigh up his options before committing again.

The club's general manager of football operations Paul Hamilton said the club had given Lloyd time to consider the offer and rejected the suggestion that the skipper was considered bait for the upcoming trade period.

"Lloyd said he needs more time to decide if he will sign a new contract and play in 2010, and we are respecting his wishes," Hamilton said.

"He has been busy with a number of things, including the birth of his second daughter, and doesn't want to rush what is a very big decision for him.

"Naturally the football club, our supporters, sponsors and the wider football public are very interested in his decision but we will not be pressuring Matthew."

Hamilton also dismissed reports Lloyd required a commitment from Knights to refrain from playing him away from goal were "simply not correct".

Knights has told Lloyd he wants him to play on, but the five-time All-Australian legend is thought to be concerned about the rookie coach's youth policy and determination to develop Scott Gumbleton, Jay Neagle, Michael Hurley and Darcy Daniher in key forward roles.

"Matthew Lloyd is a club champion and deserves to know the expectations the club has of him," Hamilton said.

"He knows there is a place for him in 2010 if he can physically and mentally commit to another season."