'He's got it worse': Jarome Luai's sympathy for Lachlan Galvin over persistent contract spotlight
When it comes to contract speculation, Jarome Luai is no stranger to it all.
Last year, the attention was relentless with questions over whether he'd stay at the Panthers or move on to the Tigers or Bulldogs.
Eventually he chose Tiger town - and he'll team up with Lachlan Galvin, another half who has been subject to speculation.
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Galvin requested numerous releases from his contract last year through his agent Isaac Moses, with the now 19-year-old becoming the hottest talking point in the NRL.
Jarome Luai and Lachlan Galvin. Nine/Getty
He stayed but come November 1 this year, he'll be able to listen to offers from other clubs.
Luai believes his situation pales in comparison to Galvin's, with the teen prodigy likely to be grilled with repeated contract questions throughout the year.
"He's got it worse than me because of how young he is and how quick he's had to step into that spotlight," Luai told reporters on Wednesday.
"I think I had a bit more time to develop myself off the field and away from the cameras and the lights.
"So wherever I can help him I'll let him know I'm right here. I've been through a lot as well, so I've learned a lot and you got to have good people around you and know who's advice you're taking and who's right and who's wrong."
Galvin has sported a new look since reporting for pre season at the Tigers.
His goatee mirrors that of Luai but the blonde streaks in his hair do not.
The former Panthers half's first impression of Galvin didn't relate to his appearance though.
"He's the fittest guy I have seen bro," Luai said.
"His test results, his times and the energy he has out there on the field is crazy, so that excites me as a bit of an older player now.
"He gives me energy out there as well, which is pretty cool to feel from a younger guy because I think I am used to being that younger guy, but it's cool to feel from somebody else."
