http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...twist-for-timana/story-e6frexnr-1225965682250
TIMANA Tahu's future at Parramatta is virtually untenable with revelations the star centre's wife has moved to Newcastle to be closer to her family.
The decision by Tahu's wife, Kasey, to leave Sydney adds more doubt over the former Test centre's already clouded future at the Eels.
The Sunday Telegraph has learned that Tahu has spoken of plans to remain in Sydney and commute back and forth to Newcastle.
But Eels team-mates and officials believe it's virtually impossible for Tahu - a devoted family man - to focus on his football without his wife and two kids nearby.
Tahu's decision to quit rugby union coincided with his struggles to spend lengthy periods away from his family.
Newcastle chief executive Steve Burraston says he hasn't spoken to Tahu, but speculation is widespread in rugby league circles that he is manouevring for a return to the Knights.
Tahu, was born and raised in Newcastle and spent six seasons at the Knights before joining Parramatta in 2005.
It was also reported he was spotted late last week in the Newcastle area with two Knights players.
Burraston, a former Newcastle lower-grade coach, mentored Tahu through his junior years, but he said last week that Tahu wasn't in the club's sights for next season.
"We haven't spoken to him at all, nor are we in the market for a centre at the moment," Burraston said.
"I've had a lot to do with Timana, and I respect the bloke and I respect his ability.
"I thought he played some good footy when he came back from rugby union.
"He's always welcome at our place, but it's got to be under the right circumstances.
"Right at the moment, there's not a position for him or enough room for us to fit him under the salary cap."
The Knights last made a play for Tahu's services in 2009 before he signed to return to the Eels from rugby union.
Parramatta coach Stephen Kearney is yet to meet with Tahu after he was granted leave from training to confront some personal issues.
Kearney is refusing to get caught up in the drama, with his focus on rebuilding the Eels after they missed the finals last year.
Tahu's wife Kasey said last weekend that she hoped Parramatta would not push her husband back to training until after Christmas.
Eels management are tempted to wait until then before making a decision on Tahu's future.
