Warriors put out feelers to Carlos

Carlos Spencer

The Warriors have made a back-door approach to see if Carlos Spencer would rather play league than warm the bench in local rugby.

Spencer, on the outer with the Blues Super 12 rugby franchise, is recovering from a cheekbone fracture and is believed to be preparing to travel to England to pursue offers.

The 35-test All Black remains contracted to the New Zealand Rugby Union until the end of next year, so any new deal would require a release from the national body.

Spencer's agent, David Jones, confirmed last night he had been approached by an intermediary for the Warriors.

He was told the club intended putting a firm proposal before the 29-year-old first five-eighth, who played some junior schoolboy league in Levin. But Mr Jones said he had nothing in writing and, until he did, it was all speculation. Spencer had two serious offers on the table from English clubs and one from France.

A Warriors spokesman confirmed their interest: "Everyone at the Warriors regards Carlos as an incredible athlete and if he wants to talk, we're happy to."

The interest in Spencer, combined with the approach to Australian former league player turned boxer Anthony Mundine, adds weight to suggestions the Warriors are looking to off-load halfback Stacey Jones.

Speculation over Spencer's future began when the Blues dropped him from their starting line-up two matches ago. His season declined further when he injured the cheekbone.

He has played 96 matches for the Blues and 94 provincial games for Auckland. He was hoping to reach the double of 100 matches at both levels this year.

Spencer made his provincial debut in 1992 for Horowhenua, before moving to Auckland as an 18-year-old. He made his test debut for the All Blacks in 1997.