Manly centre Steve Matai has performed an about-face and re-signed with the NRL club until the end of the 2017 season.
The New Zealand Test representative last year asked the Sea Eagles for a release from the final year of his contract amid turmoil at the club.
At the time he was unhappy at premiership-winning teammates Glenn Stewart and Anthony Watmough being allowed to leave the club and believed he could earn more money elsewhere.
Several clubs including New Zealand and the Gold Coast tabled big money offers for Matai’s services however Manly refused to grant him a release.
“There’s been a lot of speculation of late, so to have my future sorted before the start of the season is great,” Matai said.
“It means my focus can simply go back to ensuring I’m fit and ready for action as soon as possible.
“The main priority was always my family – my partner Kate and my two little kids. Everything I do is for them.
“They start school soon, so not having to relocate definitely played a part in the decision too. My goal is always to make them happy. If they’re happy, then I’m happy and I’ve done my job.”
Matai’s signature is a big coup for the Sea Eagles who are fighting to retain off-contract star halves Daly Cherry-Evans and Kieran Foran.
“For Sea Eagles members and fans to know they won’t have to worry about seeing Steve line-up against the club over the next few seasons is extremely pleasing,” Manly chief executive Joe Kelly said.
“To also see Steve remain a one-club player in this era, really does put him in very elite company and is a special achievement.”
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