St George Illawarra centre Beau Scott has rejected claims the announcement of his decision to head to Newcastle next year played any role in the Dragons’ big NRL loss to Canterbury.

The Knights released a statement just over 24 hours before the Dragons’ 30-4 loss to the Bulldogs on Saturday night, revealing they had secured Scott on a four-year deal.

Hampered by a leg injury that saw him replaced at halftime, Scott denied his decision had any effect on the team – despite the Dragons turning in one of their worst displays in recent memory.

“Not at all,” Scott said when asked if the news had been a distraction, having told his teammates of the decision earlier in the week.

“It’s business at usual, next year will look after itself when it comes around.

“It’s always a tough decision.”

Asked about the timing of the announcement, Scott said:

“It was just the right time to do it, get it out there and we can all move on.

“We spoke about it earlier in the week and got on with the job at hand but I think tonight the Bulldogs wanted the win more than us.”

The Dragons are believed to be upset at the loss of the Test and NSW Origin representative, but coach Steve Price downplayed any impact it may have had on the performance at ANZ Stadium.

“The senior players in our playing group knew midweek, so that wasn’t an issue whatsoever,” Price said.