My "interpretation" is that that The Tigers were almost commited to signing him, then watched Monna's poor game against Nth Qld that included intercept passes, and consecutive long kicks over the dead in goals - then John Morris came out and had a blinder against The Dogs - so they pulled out of the race last minute - making Monaghan look a tad silly. You can't blame him for that (I guess).
Banaghan / Monnas will now come back with how commited to Manly they are - but reality for me is that he has seen for the 2nd time he's shopped himself around publicly, what a damned well good wicket he's on in the maroon and white.
Can't he just be satisfied that Manly has improved him as a player, and is paying him platinum price for copper performances? We have to remember Matt Elliott said he wasn't good enough for 1st grade at all, and he left there with a bitter taste in his mouth.
I'm also glad we didn't win his brother. He's probably also getting paid $200k+, and basically played one poor season, one season completely out, and now injury riddled in the 3rd season. I note Joel's also off contract, and The Roosters aren't rushing to sign him anytime soon.