Hayne turns out for Eels

The Jarryd Hayne circus is back in town.

With a barrage of media and fans watching on, Hayne yesterday completed his first training session since walking out on the Gold Coast Titans to rejoin the Parramatta Eels.

All eyes were on the NSW State of Origin star, as he was put through his paces with a series of ball work and running drills.

A visibly fatigued Hayne struggled with the shuttle runs, finishing last in his group on most occasions.

But he found his second wind when the football came out, hitting the mark with a series of pinpoint passes.

Hayne, training with the Eels for the first time since he left the club to pursue a career in the NFL at the end of 2014, was far from the polished product but he looked happy to be home among familiar faces again.

Judging by the throng of cameras present, the blue and golds haven’t had this much media attention at training since the club’s salary cap scandal in 2016.

But this is Parramatta’s prodigal son.

Throw in a civil court case hanging over Hayne’s head, and the maligned back won’t be able to dodge the headlines in 2018.

Hayne’s presence will provide a stern test for Parramatta coach Brad Arthur, who is fully focused on football coming first for the rejuvenated Eels.

After training Hayne faced the media for the first time since rape allegations surfaced in the US.

While Hayne refused to answer questions about the alleged incident, in a statement released by his lawyers he denied the allegations.

“I confirm that I unequivocally and vehemently deny the allegations made against me and I will be vigorously defending the matter,” he said.