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Genia signs new deal with Reds

Sydney - Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia on Monday re-signed with the Reds until the end of the 2015 Super Rugby season in a dramatic turnaround after the club said he had joined the Force.

Genia said he changed his mind several times over the weekend after the Reds on Saturday night announced he was leaving for the Perth club next season.

Queensland Rugby Union had said it could not go close to matching Force's offer, reportedly between Aus$550 000 (US$575 000) and Aus$600 000 a season.

"I always maintained a strong desire to stay in Queensland with the Reds, however I also received offers from both here in Australia and from overseas and I considered my options," Genia said in a statement.

"(Coach) Ewen (McKenzie) asked me after the game on Friday whether I was going to be staying with the Reds and I told him I was going to join the Western Force.

"When I considered my options over the weekend, I realised it didn't really sit well with me and my heart was in Queensland and that's where I want to play my rugby."

The Reds' player of the year for the past two seasons, Genia came to the realisation that there was more to it than money.

"The financial gain to move to Perth was quite significant but it's not about money. It's about where I'm happy and this is where I'd be happy," he said.

MacKenzie said he was pleased Genia was staying.

"He's an integral player in our side, our vice-captain, and I'm sure all Reds members and fans will be thrilled he has recommitted through to the end of 2015," he said.

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