Rabbitohs hit back at 'absolute rubbish' Cook rumour

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have hit back at a claim Damien Cook is on the outer over an "absolute rubbish" rumour he's been leaking information. Cook has confirmed he's received a two-year offer from the Dragons, despite him being under contract at the Rabbitohs until the end of 2025. South Sydney would reportedly have to pay a portion of that deal next year if he went to the Dragons. "Obviously it's a bit new to me, this sort of stuff, and I don't want to leave," he told 9news last week. "But we'll just get through the game and speak to my manager next week." Rumours have since emerged around the circumstances of the Rabbitohs giving Cook permission to negotiate with rivals but the club has since put that to rest. "There's been rumours, which Souths have told me they're aware of today, that he may be being moved on because of leaks from the club," Nine reporter Danny Weidler said on 100% Footy. "They've said that is absolute rubbish ... I put to them today, they said that is incorrect, Damien will not be asked to move on early from the club, instead they want to honour him in the best possible way and give him the send off he deserves as a player." Weidler also addressed rumours record tryscorer Alex Johnston could be on the way out. However, Souths have quashed that too. "Alex Johnston is in Wayne Bennett's plans and he will be there next year," he said.