Carter weighing up future

Patient Man: Dan Carter continues to ponder

New Zealand linchpin Dan Carter has revealed he is still mulling over his options as Europe's top clubs continue to bide their time.

The Crusaders' fly-half, who is currently nursing an ankle injury picked up on Super 14 duty, is widely regarded as rugby's hottest property with French giants Toulouse one of several teams linked.

The news comes on the day rival All Black pivot Nick Evans announced he is to link up with Guinness Premiership side Harlequins next term in a deal that runs to 2011, seemingly negating his World Cup selection chances.

Yet Carter is in no such hurry to make a decision on his playing future with New Zealand Rugby Union's contract with the star ending at this season's conclusion.

"I am still in the process of exploring all the options," he said, speaking to The Press.

"Not too much has changed. It is just an ongoing process and these things take time.

"At the end of the day I will be doing what is best for myself.

"When I make that decision I will let everyone know."