OUT OF contract midfielder Dustin Martin says he has not walked out on Richmond and simply needs more time to make a decision on his future.
Martin took to Twitter on Monday evening to clarify "conflicting stories going around about myself and the Richmond Footy Club".
The Tigers released a statement on Monday saying the club had "been advised by Dustin Martin and his management of their desire to pursue offers from other clubs".
Martin insisted he had not made any decision to leave Richmond.
"At the weekend, I asked my manager Ralph Carr to request an extension of time from Richmond, to allow me to fully consider the options about my future," the 22-year-old wrote.
"This decision was made purely by me, together with my family.
"As you can understand, this is a very important decision for myself and my family and one that I won't make lightly.
"I want to make it clear that I appreciate everyone's patience in allowing me the time to make this decision.
"The claims that I have walked out on the Richmond Football Club are totally incorrect.
"I can tell you that at this time, no decision has [been made]."
Martin's shock decision to pursue other offers came after months of negotiations between Richmond and the star midfielder.
The Tigers had been confident of retaining Martin but were unwilling to shift from their long-term player payment strategy to secure him.
Football manager Dan Richardson told richmondfc.com.au he was very disappointed with the decision.
"Given the considerable effort we have put into Dustin’s development both on and off the field, and our efforts to retain him all season, we are extremely disappointed with this decision," he said.
Martin has played 86 games and kicked 90 goals in four years with Richmond.
He was third in the club best and fairest in 2011, and many clubs will be interested in securing his services.
Greater Western Sydney is an obvious possible destination and clubs such as Carlton and Essendon may also be interested.
The Giants chased Martin during 2011 but no club has publicly expressed its desire to pursue him this season.
Melbourne also confirmed on Monday it was interested in speaking to Martin's management.
Dynamic on the field, he has learned many lessons off the field as the Tigers tried to provide structure to his life.
Richardson said the club was proud of the way Martin had developed as a footballer and person at Richmond but they respected his right to pursue other opportunities.
Martin's manager Ralph Carr declined to comment when contacted by AFL.com.au
