AFTER winning the race to start the season as Panthers fullback, Lachlan Coote last night pledged he would end his career at Penrith.
And the intrigue cranked-up a gear last week, when Coote was linked to a possible move to the Roosters in 2012.
But normal transmission has prevailed, with Coote named fullback for Saturday night's season opener against Canterbury and the local junior vowing to stay put for the remainder of his three-year deal.
The Daily Telegraph understands the Roosters would be interested if Coote became available, butPanthers boss Phil Gould and coach Ivan Cleary have absolutely no intention of releasing him.
"And I'm happy to stay here for the rest of my career because it's such a good club," Coote said.
"There's so many exciting things that are going to happen over the next few years and I want to be part of that. I've spoken to Gus and Ivan about the reports about the Roosters and told them I want to see-out the three years of my contract here and they feel the same."
Despite publicly stating his preference to move to fullback, Gordon will be named on the wing when Penrith's round one team is announced this afternoon.
Coote and Gordon have spoken privately about their desire to play the same position and the 21-year-old welcomes the competition.
"That's just part of football - all through my career there's been competition for spots in the team," Coote said.
"I've spoken to Mick (Gordon) about it and I understand that he was never a winger until he played NRL here. He played elsewhere all through his junior career and wants something different.
"It's just another challenge and one that I'm happy to take on board.
"Mick and I have always been good mates and this doesn't change anything," Coote said