The manager of Brent Harvey and Drew Petrie has explained the circumstances of North’s announcement to not re-contract four key players.

Shane Casley, of TLA-ESP, told SEN the players forced the club’s hand on a decision regarding their playing futures.

"It was us (the players) pushing them (the club),” Casley said.

“They (the club) would have preferred to hold off a bit longer (on making the decision) to be honest.

“I don't know what else they (North) could do. At the end of the day the players didn't want to front the media and I totally get that.

“They will at the right time when they think it's appropriate, but they just don't think it's now when the focus is on the club winning a game of footy this week. So what else could the club do once the players were told?"

Brad Scott fronted the media on Wednesday to announce Harvey, Petrie, Michael Firrito and Nick Dal Santo would not be re-contracted for 2017.

Casley said the games-record holder, Harvey, was yet to make a decision on his future, but was “a long shot” to play elsewhere.

Any interest from other clubs would be more likely to come after the season was completed.

"I wouldn't expect that they will (have contact from other clubs) while the footy season is on, and to be honest I haven't spoken to 'Boomer' at all or 'Drewy' (Petrie) about what next year looks like, whether it's following business careers or coaching careers or footy careers," Casley said.

"They're just really focused on finishing their careers at the Kangaroos as champions of the club and going out on a high.

"We'll catch up once the season's over and chat about all that."