Canberra centre Matt Timoko has revealed how contract speculation surrounding him was mentally challenging, after making his return to the NRL.
Timoko had to sit on the sidelines while rumours circulated over his future with the Raiders, as his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, but with options to extend for the 2027 and 2028 campaigns.
The Kiwi international was linked to a move to the Perth Bears and Warriors, but coach Ricky Stuart put the speculation to rest, saying he will be in Canberra for another year.
Regardless, the rumours took a toll on the centre, who was building his strength in the NSW Cup after picking up a foot injury in the preseason.
"It just got blown out of proportion, from journalists and all that stuff," Timoko said.
"As soon as I heard stuff coming out about myself, it was a hard one because I wasn't playing and couldn't back it up.
"I talked a lot to Ricky throughout that patch, and talked to my manager as well, and we both agreed it didn't come from our end."
Timoko played his first match of the season last Friday night against Melbourne, scoring a crucial second-half try before leaving the field in the 71st minute with a cramp.
The 26-year-old said the pace of their 26-22 win was quicker than last year, but insisted he will adapt after the NRL changed its rules to reward six-again's between the 20 and 40-metre line.
His comeback was partially overshadowed by fellow centre Simi Sasagi after he dazzled, scoring a try, producing an assist, and running for 182 metres.
Sasagi previously told AAP that he has used Timoko's words of wisdom to help find his form, but the 26-year-old said otherwise.
"He (Sasagi) has improved ... I'll go around asking him for tips about how to defend and how to do things," Timoko said.
"There's no way shape or form any malice. It's just healthy competition, and it's good for the whole squad."
