Disgruntled Sharks star Josh Morris is reportedly “more determined than ever” to quit Cronulla thanks to an act of disrespect after his release request was denied.

The Sydney Morning Herald revealed Morris was not only denied the release he requested, but he wasn’t even informed directly.

The Sharks failed to directly inform Morris’ management, with the 33-year-old learning of the club’s decision through the media.

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Given the logjam of centre options at the Sharks, with Jesse Ramien and Bronson Xerri the frontrunners to the two starting centre positions, Morris asked the club for a release to link with brother Brett at the Roosters.

The Roosters have an opening at centre after losing Latrell Mitchell to the Rabbitohs and Billy Smith to an ACL injury.

Morris, 33, was convinced that Cronulla didn’t need him in the centres, though he now is in the running for the Sharks’ fullback position.

Morris represented the Sharks in the NRL Nines in Perth and has pledged to his teammates to give his best for the club if not granted a release this season.

Josh Morris during Cronulla Sharks NRL training. Source: News Corp Australia

“He just told the boys, he was honest and he’s always been honest,” Aaron Woods said.

“He said: This is what’s happened, blah, blah, blah, and we respect that. It’s not like he’s dropping the shoulder and coming in and being angry and trying to duck and weave.

“He’s come in and just been Josh and that’s why he’s a great leader of the club. It’s probably a good opportunity for him to go there (the Roosters) but as a player at the Cronulla Sharks, I don’t want to let a leader like that go. He’s a leader and a role model.”

Morris has scored 138 tries in 286 first grade games but is yet to win an elusive premiership.