Maroons and Kangaroo fullback Billy Slater believes there's still a possibility Cooper Cronk will decide to retire from the NRL, but insists the looming defection to a Sydney club will not tarnish his legacy at the Melbourne Storm.
As the 'big three' prepare to play their final game together in Melbourne in Friday night's World Cup opener against England, the future of Cronk remains a hot topic of interest inside the Kangaroos camp.
Cronk has asked his manager George Mimis to field offers from interested clubs, but Slater suggested there was a possibility the halfback would call it a day if the planets don't align for him at the Roosters or a rival Sydney club.
"I wouldn't be surprised if he decides to retire or play on to be honest," Slater told NRL.com.
"His body is in a good shape, so I wouldn't be surprised either way. It's up to him to decide if he wants to play on."
There's been a suggestion Cronk would risk ruining his legacy at the Storm if he didn't finish his career a one-club player.
Slater rubbished such claims, admitting nothing would change the contribution the Queensland and Australian halfback had made to the Storm since making his debut way back in 2004.
"For what Cooper has done in Melbourne at the Storm, his legacy won't be jeopardised if he plays at another club," Slater said.
"He has done an amazing job and set a high standard every time he trains or takes the field. He’s shown a lot of young guys the right way."
