FORMER York City Knights favourite Simon Friend is to stay in his native Australia after signing for a Jim Beam Cup club.

However, he hasn't ruled out a return to England - York included - and has sent his best wishes for a successful season at Huntington Stadium.

The back-row star, who proved a big hit in his year at the Knights, had been linked with a few leading National League clubs aside from York after his contract came to close at the end of last season - with Barrow boss Peter Roe confirming this week that the Raiders had made him a failed offer.

But the Aussie has decided to stay down under for the time-being at least, having put pen to paper for Erina Eagles, who play in the Jim Beam Cup, which is effectively one grade below the Australia top tier, the NRL.

Nevertheless, the Press understands that a clause in the 27-year-old star's contract states that if an English or an NRL club make an approach then he is free to leave.

"The team I have signed for have a lot of my old mates who I played with at the North Sydney Bears so that was one of the reasons for signing there," he told the Evening Press.

"We have a pretty good side and I'm hoping we win a few games and just enjoy ourselves."

Friend had admitted being home-sick at times during his year in York, but has never hidden his regard for the Minster city.

"Things are going well for me back home and I'm really happy to be back but to tell you the truth I am missing York and the people there," he said.

"When we were over there it seemed like forever that we were there but when we got home it all happened so fast.

"We really had a great time in York and hopefully one day soon I will be able to come back and say g'day to everyone again."

He added: "I will miss the fans' cheering this season as it was awesome to be backed by such a vocal and supportive bunch of people. They were all so great and I don't think I will ever come across something like that ever again."

Updated: 10:43 Tuesday, February 08, 2005