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Tigers to offer Baker “the world” to stay on at Punt Road

Adem Yze spoke on the Western Australian’s future in the wake of the Tigers’ upset win.

Published by
Zero Hanger

Richmond head coach Adem Yze has stated that the Tigers will give Liam Baker the world to remain at Punt Road beyond the end of the 2024 season.

Now in a leadership role for Yze's rebuilding Richmond unit, Baker has continued to fly head first at the footy in 2024, including in Sunday's win over Sydney - a contest where the farm boy from Pingaring had 21 disposals.

Still, the 26-year-old is set to come out of contract at the cessation of the season, with clubs - both within Victoria and in his native Western Australia - said to be circling for the hard nut's signature.

Speaking post-game, Yze stressed that while the decision remained Baker's, and that the utility remained a beloved name at Tigerland, there would be no judgment should he opt out at season's end.

"He'll make his decision and the club will work with him on that," Yze said.

"We'll give him the world if he wants to stay at our footy club, but if he decides to go, that's the nature of the game.

"While he's here, we just want him to play free, enjoy his footy and make that decision when the time comes.

"That's the only thing I've been talking to him about. I just want his effort to be high and just enjoy walking into the footy club.

"We love him; he knows that.

"What he does bring to our footy club is spirit. He's the vice captain and our players love him.

"He's very much a player we want to keep, but we won't judge him if he decides to go the other way."

Richmond will do battle against St Kilda at Norwood Oval next Sunday afternoon.

Published by
Zero Hanger