Gold Coast Titans coach Des Hasler has strongly denied suggestions that David Fifita is on the outer, insisting the sidelined forward remains a “key part” of the club’s future plans and can help lift them off the bottom of the NRL ladder.
Currently sitting second-last after nine rounds, the Titans are under pressure, with reports surfacing that Hasler’s job could depend on a finals appearance to secure the third year of his contract through 2026.
Speculation about tension between Hasler and Fifita intensified after the former Origin star was demoted to reserve grade, having raised concerns about his role in the side. Fifita has since undergone keyhole surgery on a nagging ankle injury, sidelining him for the foreseeable future.
Facing mounting scrutiny ahead of Friday’s game against Newcastle, Hasler downplayed the situation, saying it’s not unfamiliar territory.
“This is just part of the job,” Hasler said. “I’ve been in these situations before — it’s like standing in a kitchen when it gets hot. You just have to work through it.”
He added that the best remedy would be getting back into the winner’s circle. “It starts Friday. It won’t be easy — they’ve bounced back with a win after some losses. We’ve only had five days to prepare, but we’ll give it everything. I’ve got faith in this group.”
Amid rumours that Fifita — who famously reversed a deal with the Roosters to sign a million-dollar contract with the Titans — is being offered to rival clubs, Hasler made it clear he wants the 25-year-old to stay.
“He’s absolutely still part of our long-term plans,” he said.
“Our relationship is solid. Everything’s fine. We’re moving forward, and we know we can improve — there’s no problem there.
“Dave needed to focus on a few areas and reflect, which he’s done. We’ve worked through that together.”
