Eddy’s fight for future

However, it is understood the former Samoa and United States international needs an extended quality run of matches to prove he can contribute on the field if he wants to stay for a fourth year at the Titans.

This year, Pettybourne has managed only 23 out of a possible 800 minutes in the NRL plus a couple of Queensland Cup appearances. He played just 275 minutes last season.

Since the start of 2016, his injuries include concussion, a compound finger fracture, a severely corked quad, an ankle complaint and a series of hamstring and calf problems.

His comeback for the Seagulls on Saturday was a significant step forward, playing 80 minutes for a return of 22 tackles and 118 running metres.

Titans forwards Morgan Boyle and Paterika Vaivai spoke highly of the influence Pettybourne has had on their rise to the NRL side.

Vaivai said Pettybourne has helped him on and off the field, including with his faith.

“Eddy has really helped me out with that … it’s really good to have him around the club,” he said. Boyle added the veteran – “a good fella” – had guided him when he was injured during the pre-season.