NRL: Roosters remain coy over SBW

Sonny Bill Williams. Photo / Getty Images

The Sydney Roosters are remaining coy on the prospect of signing Sonny Bill Williams to their 2013 NRL roster.

Williams revealed earlier this week he wouldn't continue with New Zealand rugby past this season and is expected to sign with the Roosters after a stint with union in Japan.

Coach Brian Smith is saying little.

"I've got a view about wanting to coach great players super athletes and all that sort of stuff. To be fair I think you guys know as much as I do about all that.''

But Smith is prepared to roll out the welcome mat for Sonny Bill Williams, saying he's not put off by the constant headlines surrounding Williams.

"I don't think he's had too much of a circus with where he's been in rugby in recent times, limited bits that I've seen of him playing in both the All Blacks and the Chiefs colours he seems to be in mighty good form.''

Roosters' fullback Anthony Minichiello says he'd welcome Williams with open arms.

"If he does get a chance to come to the club I'd love to play with him he's done some pretty special things on the field and holds the ball like a tennis ball so I'm not going to run off him that's for sure.''

Williams will play rugby union in Japan after this year's Super Rugby season.