Penrith Panthers utility Peter Wallace believes his newfound versatility could prolong his NRL career.
Wallace is currently serving his final year at Penrith but a strong start to the season in both the halfback and dummy half roles could earn the former captain a career lifeline.
Extra Time understands Wallace is a good chance of earning a new one-year deal after impressing at hooker during James Segeyaro’s recent stint on the sidelines.
Speaking on Wednesday afternoon, the 30-year-old confirmed his manager was in early discussions to extend his time at Penrith.
“I think my manager is on to that now, so we’ll see what comes out of that,” Wallace said.
“Staying at Penrith would be my first preference but we’ll see what happens.
“I’d like to think my versatility could extend my career. I suppose I can offer more than I thought I could before, so hopefully it does.”
After enduring a host of devastating knee injuries since his return to the Panthers in 2014, Wallace has enjoyed his healthiest run yet – playing in all 10 games to start the season.
The former Broncos half said he’s feeling the best he has in a while.
“At the start of 2014 I felt really good, I was probably playing some of my best footy I’ve played, it was just unfortunate how that year finished,” he said.
“Last year was a bit of write off, I was never really right. But I feel good now – healthy and fit – and it’s going really well.”
The Penrith Panthers will finally return home to Pepper Stadium this Sunday afternoon following more than a month on the road.
Wallace said he’s looking forward to returning to familiar territory to take on the Gold Coast Titans.
“It’s been a while, obviously taking the two home games away was good for the club to get some exposure but we’d rather be playing at home,” he said.
“Thankfully we won both of those games and we get to come back here this week.”
A victory on Sunday will cement Penrith’s spot in the top eight, at least for another week, before a well-deserved bye in Round 12.
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.