Buddy Franklin's contract saga may affect Hawks, Cyril Rioli says Cyril Rioli says Lance Franklin's contract negitiations may be a distraction for some Hawthorn players. HAWTHORN star Cyril Rioli admits Lance Franklin's decision to put off contract talks until the end of the season may be worrying some teammates. Franklin last week stunned the Hawks by suspending negotiations, sparking fears he may leave the club when his contract expires in October. "I think it's a bit nerve-wracking for most of the fans and some of the players," Rioli told the Herald Sun. But he loves the Hawks. He's been here for a while and, personally, I can't see him going anywhere. But that's all up to him and his management to sort out. Pressed further on whether he was confident his goalkicking partner-in-crime would stay, Rioli would only say: "I hope he stays, but we'll just have to wait and see." Franklin's announcement sent a chill down the spine of seemingly everyone associated with brown and gold. There are also concerns the delay will create the sort of unrelenting distraction that derailed Travis Cloke and Collingwood's campaign last year. But Rioli said Franklin had the ability to block out the sideshow and keep performing to his customary high level. "With 'Clokey' and all that it put a bit of pressure on them (Collingwood), but 'Bud' just plays his normal game so hopefully it all goes well this year," he said. It would be good for him to sort of focus on his footy and just play out this season. Franklin's manager Liam Pickering said this week he was giving Franklin his "100 per cent support," but also admitted he had walked the superstar forward through the pitfalls.