Jarome Luai has clarified his stance on Lachlan Galvin, declaring he likes playing with the young playmaker.
Galvin made his first NRL appearance for the Tigers on Sunday since announcing his decision to leave the club at the end of the 2026 season.
He was dropped to reserve grade by coach Benji Marshall last weekend, with reports declaring the team's leadership group, which included Luai and Api Koroisau, pushed for his exclusion.
However, the 19-year-old returned to the top flight in Round 8 and helped the Tigers earn a dramatic 20-18 golden point win over the Sharks.
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There were doubts surrounding Galvin's ability to fit back in with the side following a tumultuous fortnight.
In particular, his relationship with Luai was under the microscope, with the former Panthers half posting a 'TeamFirst' graphic on social media following Galvin's exit decision.
The four-time premiership winner addressed the topic, refuting claims he doesn't enjoy playing with the young Tiger.
"Not once have I said that I don’t like to play with him," Luai said post-match.
"I love playing with the kid, I love what he brings to our team – I love this club and I love this team, and I think we all showed that.
"We love this jersey as well, proud of the boys, and hopefully this builds on."
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Coach Marshall also praised Galvin, who recorded two try assists and 111 run metres at Leichhardt against Cronulla.
He noted his crucial calming influence, which arguably proved the difference in a tight contest.
"I thought he was great, he just went out and played footy, it’s what he has always done," Marshall said.
"From that first try that he set up, that sort of calmed the nerves and got everyone in the game to just focus on footy.
"We had a good chat before the game about a few things and I thought he did all of those things."