'I've not even spoken to Wests Tigers since I left': John Bateman's reveal over Manly contract rumours

John Bateman has denied he's on his way to Manly, despite reports linking him to the club after his guest stint at Warrington.

Bateman was allowed to head back to England during the 2024 season for a short stint despite being contracted to the Wests Tigers.

The second-rower has reportedly had a falling out with coach Benji Marshall and it was believed his move back to England meant his time at the Tigers was done.

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However, with two years still to run on his contract, Bateman has sent a message to the Tigers hierarchy, declaring he'll be back despite a lack of contact between both parties.

"Honestly mate, it's news to me (him heading to Manly) when it comes out," he told NRL.com ahead of England's Test with Samoa.

"I've not spoken to anyone over there regarding the team and stuff like that; I've got two years left at Wests Tigers and I'm going back there.

"I've not even spoken to Wests Tigers since I left, to be fair. They just sent me a message saying [when] I'm due in.

"From there, I'm literally unsure about that stuff."

When Bateman was further asked about a move to Manly, the England star repeated it's "news to me".

"I'm not usually on Twitter and stuff like that. I don't follow any rugby league columns on Instagram ... I've had a few texts," he said.

"I don't where it came from, I don't know who said it."