Steve Menzies will continue playing next season – but it is unlikely to be at Bradford.

Although the door has not closed completely on an Odsal extension, the veteran back-rower has been given permission to consider other options while the Bulls do the same.

Despite two impressive seasons at the club, 36-year-old Menzies has fallen victim to a reduction in Super League’s overseas quota.

Clubs will only be allowed five quota players in 2011 and with four of Bradford’s spots already taken, they are keen to test the market before filling the final space.

The emergence of youngsters James Donaldson and Elliott Whitehead and the retention of Jamie Langley means there are options in the back row and a lack of strike, particularly in the three-quarters, is seen as a more pressing concern by incoming coach Mick Potter.

It means Menzies could be lining up against the Bulls next season. He said: “Bradford have said they’re going to test the market before they sign anyone on their quota spot. It’s up in the air and I’ll have to have a look around.

“I still feel I’ve played well and I’ve probably been happier with the way I’ve played this year than last year.

“The body still feels good, so I still feel I can compete at this level and I’d definitely like to play, I just need a team to play for.

“I don’t know how much chance I’d have of going back to Australia. The biggest chance is probably in Super League.”

When Menzies first arrived at Odsal in 2009, he signed a 12-month contract fully intending on retiring at the end of the season.

But with the body holding up better than expected and passion remaining undiminished, the former Australian Test star agreed to another year-long deal for the current campaign.

Standards have still not dipped, even during the Bulls’ recent run of wretched form, convincing Menzies to play on – despite being sounded out about a potential coaching role with the juniors at former club Manly.

He said: “That’s something I’d consider when going back but my main goal is to play rugby league for one more season because once you retire that’s it, you can’t play any more and that’ll be a new chapter in my life.

“When I originally signed over here I only signed a 12-month deal purely because I thought I was getting old. But I have probably felt better in my body this year and haven’t missed a game.

“I had a few groin niggles last year but they’ve been really good and I haven’t had too much drama. Maybe it’s good genes or something like that.”

The impending birth of Menzies’ second child has made a decision on his future even more pressing.

He is ready to listen to offers from other clubs but admits the Bulls remain his first choice and has still not ruled out an extended Odsal stay.

Menzies said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time here, it’s been good. Obviously they’re having a look to see what’s out there before making a decision, so I’ve got to look after myself and if that’s the way it goes, I’ve enjoyed my time and there will be no grudges if I move on.

“It’s not a definite ‘no’ but they’re looking at other avenues. I can’t sit around waiting for that to happen and I have to look out for myself.

“I’d definitely consider it if they came back to me. I love playing here and I wouldn’t not play here just because they’ve said they’re looking around.”