Dan Carter. Photo / Brett Phibbs
Dan Carter has suggested he may walk away from the All Blacks.
The first five-eighth said today that he will give consideration to playing in rugby's English Premiership after next year.
Carter, 25, has one year left on his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union and told
Britain's Sky Sports News that when it expires he will "make a decision on where I want my career to head".
In the immediate aftermath of the All Blacks' quarterfinal elmination from the World Cup last month, Carter indicated he was leaning strongly towards staying in New Zealand until the next tournament.
However, his latest comments suggest an overseas contract is a realistic possibility.
"I really enjoy playing over here (in England) -- there are great crowds and great people," Carter said.
"It's something I'm going to have to have a good think about as I consider where I want my career to head. But it's definitely on the cards for the future."
Such a move would make Carter ineligible for the All Blacks.
Despite a disappointing 2007 season, 44-test veteran Carter is arguably the most valuable and marketable player in the world game.
Last month he told NZPA he was keen to be a player to build a new-look team around going into the 2011 World Cup hosted by New Zealand.
"I'm only 25 and hopefully have a few years left in the black jersey," he said.
"It's a good chance to sit down and plan the next few years and put my career exactly where I want it to go.
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
"This black jersey means more to me than anything else. I'm keen to hang around and make the most of these next few years."
Already this year several high-profile All Blacks have left for England -- including lock Chris Jack (Saracens), prop Carl Hayman (Newcastle) and second five-eighths Aaron Mauger (Leicester) and Luke McAlister (Sale).
- NZPA
