Geelong veteran Tom Hawkins has quashed any suggestion that a move away from the Cats was a chance of eventuating over the off-season as contract talks with the club were "drawn out".
Hawkins' name was raised as a shock target for Melbourne during the recent trade and free agency window, with any play from the Demons falling short.
The 35-year-old would eventually re-sign with Geelong on a one-year deal in mid-October, taking the triple premiership forward into his 18th season in the hoops.
While intrigue and speculation surrounded Hawkins' future, the Coleman Medal winner confirmed toย K Rockย that there was little truth to the murmurs.
"Historically, contracts have happened quite quickly for me. The fact it had been drawn out was that, as a senior player, the club needs to do some due diligence, and then it happens quite quickly," Hawkins said.
"There was just a little bit of toing and froing, but really, honestly, not much. I think it got a little blown out of context.
"There was never much in it as was reported."
Hawkins, who is eight games away from matching ex-captain and close friend Joel Selwood's club games record tally, remains a key cog in Geelong's attacking plans heading into 2024.
The big-bodied forward has booted more than 45 goals in 12 successive seasons, with 2023 being the first year since 2011 where Hawkins did not lead the club's season goals tally.
Working alongside Jeremy Cameron and Oliver Henry, Hawkins is keen to prove he has what it takes to play on beyond this year as talks around his playing future are expected to continue.
The senior spearhead said he understands the standards he needs to meet that would see his Kardinia Park tenure move into a 19th term.
"People are open to have their suggestions on how they see my career finishing up, both face-to-face and publiclyโฆ I'm aware I'm at the backend of my career," Hawkins said.
"I'm a player that's always embraced the challenges, but I've also embraced the fun, which, I reckon, has allowed me to play in the game for so long.
"I'll continue to do that, and I think I'll know when the time's right (to retire), but it's certainly not at the moment.
"... I've still got a lot to offer. But I'm under no illusion if I'm not performing, I won't be there."
Hawkins and the Cats will commence their 2024 campaign with a home clash against St Kilda on Saturday, March 16 at GMHBA Stadium.
