Tension in the air as Mitchell insists he won't leave early

Western Force coach John Mitchell played a straight bat at a frosty press conference this morning, his first since announcing yesterday that he would not seek to extend his stay in Perth once his current deal runs out in 2011.

Mitchell repeatedly said he would see out the remainder of his Super 14 contract.

While Force chief executive Vern Reid left the door open for the former All Blacks coach to be replaced in time for the 2011 campaign, Mitchell said he wanted to remain at the helm until the end of next season.

"I'm committed totally to my contract right until the end," Mitchell said today.

"That's been communicated right along and nothing will change.

"Looking forward to the weekend, big time.

"Looking forward to today's training session. Nothing changes.

"I'm no different to a player that comes out of contract in 2011. I've just been totally transparent on my future."

Meanwhile, the Force's horror run of injuries has continued, with scrumhalf Brett Sheehan (hamstring), hooker Ryan Tyrrell (neck) and Sam Wykes (quad) ruled out of Saturday's clash with the Bulls in Perth and winger Scott Staniforth (hip) in massive doubt.

Tyrrell's injury is the most serious, with the 26-year-old to undergo surgery on his neck which will keep him out for the remainder of the season.