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SYDNEY - St George Illawarra confirmed yesterday that they have held talks with fallen rugby star Wendell Sailor.
Sailor, who switched from league to union in 2002, will be eligible to resume playing after May next year.
The dual international received a two-year ban after testing positive to cocaine following a Waratahs Super 14 rugby game in April 2006.
"The Dragons today confirm that they have held preliminary discussions with Wendell Sailor as reported in the media but have no further comment on these discussions at this stage," a statement from the Dragons said.
Reports have suggested the Dragons - who have lost forwards Danny Wicks, Chris Houston (both to Newcastle) and Charlie Leaeno (Bulldogs), while allowing Ashton Sims to negotiate with other clubs - would use Sailor as a back-rower.
The club yesterday signed up again youngsters Jason Nightingale, Lagi Setu and Ricky Thorby.
Winger Nightingale, 20, and former Australian Schoolboys rugby representative Setu, 19, have extended their stays by a year.
Thorby, 21, arrived at the Dragons in February from New Zealand looking for an opportunity and will wear the red and white until the end of 2009.
"Jason, Lagi and Ricky have all impressed this season and they will only get better," coach Nathan Brown said.
"They will certainly have opportunities here and I am glad they have chosen to stay."
- AAP