Spot open at St Helens as Graham considers Super League return

Canterbury's successful push for the early arrival of Luke Thompson last week is set to have a domino effect for former captain James Graham, who may have played his last game at St George Illawarra. 

The Dragons issued a statement on Thursday morning to say they have been involved in discussions with Graham and his management regarding an opportunity for him to return to the English Super League with immediate effect.

NRL.com understands Thompson's early exit at St Helens has opened the door for Graham to return to the club where he made his Super League debut in 2003. 

Thompson, who is currently in Melbourne undergoing a 14-day hotel quarantine before linking with the Bulldogs, gained an early release from St Helens last week.

"The Dragons will consider this option for Graham on the merit a replacement player is secured by the club prior to his release," the club statement read.

St Helens have made no official statement regarding interest in Graham.

The 34-year-old's form at the Dragons has been in the spotlight over the past month to coincide with the club's difficult start to the year. 

Graham stated a fortnight ago he wasn't looking for the door at the Dragons, however, given the recent events of Thompson's Bulldogs arrival, the opportunity to return to the UK is now an attractive option for the respected prop. 

"Collectively, I want to get the win for this team. That's where the focus is, not worrying about what people in the media say about me as an individual and if it's the end of the road quote," Graham said.

"All I can say is I'm not looking for the door ... I'm not really thinking about my future."

Graham had been named at lock for this Saturday's Suncorp Stadium clash with the Gold Coast and has played 185 NRL games since he joined the Bulldogs in 2012. 

Prior to his arrival in the NRL, Graham played 244 competitive matches for St Helens. He has also played 50 Test matches for Great Britain and England.

The latest from the Dragons comes just days after the immediate release of former Kiwi international Issac Luke, who has since linked with the Broncos.