Benji Marshall has dismissed "bull**** rumours" suggesting that a strained relationship with Jarome Luai led to the star player's premature departure from Wests Tigers.
According to Marshall, the unexpected decision to part ways with the four-time premiership winner after just two seasons was made with the club's future and new talent in mind.
He also confirmed that Luai will be the Tigers' primary five-eighth through the 2026 season, despite their dwindling hopes for a fairy-tale return to finals football.
"I'm a guy who respects respect. That's enough [to keep him at five-eighth]," Marshall stated.
Rumors suggest Luai may sign with Parramatta for one year in 2027, following his arrival at the Tigers last season, aiming to revitalize the club both on and off the field.
The Tigers, currently sitting in 13th place, have faced a downward spiral since Luai announced he would be PNG's first signing for 2028.
They have managed to win only two out of ten games since Luai's agreement with the Chiefs, with Marshall attributing the distraction to himself.
"Obviously we've got injuries and whatnot, but we've gone a bit backwards from where we were. I think that's down to me," he admitted.
Surprised by Luai's unexpected move to the Chiefs, Marshall mentioned that the Tigers began contemplating "four or five weeks" ago whether it might be wiser for Luai to depart after 2026 instead of waiting until 2027.