SWINDON Robins have released a strongly worded statement regarding an alleged move by Premier League outfit Sheffield to sign Nick Morris.

The statement, which states that Morris has asked to be allowed to join Sheffield, says it would be a "smack in the face" to the club if the Aussie leaves Abbey Stadium.

The missive reads: "Swindon are considering their next move after learning of an alleged move by Premier League Sheffield to sign Nick Morris.

"Morris, who is highly rated by the club management who have invested heavily in the rider and in a transfer fee, has seen his proposed deal with Somerset cancelled.

"The Rebels were forced to make a team change following a change to the average of Brady Kurtz and Morris was the one to make way.

"Now Morris has told Swindon he would like to join Sheffield – and manager Alun Rossiter is now looking at his options.

"Agreement was reached for Morris to ride for Swindon in 2014 before he flew back to Australia, as was publicised in the local media.

"He said: “It is quite clear that a member of the new Sheffield consortium has made an approach to the Nick Morris camp, despite us underlining the fact that we already have an agreement in place.

"“If Nick leaves Swindon it will be a smack in the face for everyone who has shown their faith in him and the investment the club made in him.

"“It means we may well have to revisit our team plans and go in a completely different direction. As a club we have to keep our options open and the club will be taking the matter up at the forthcoming General Council meeting.

"“This is a regrettable situation and one we, as a club, do not deserve to have on our plate – we will now do what we believe is in the best interests of Swindon Speedway.”"