Powerhouse Penrith winger Josh Mansour says he’s listening to his heart after signing a new two-year deal to stay at the club.
Mansour informed Canberra this morning that he was rejecting a big money offer to head to the nation’s capital and would instead stay with the Panthers.
It is understood a late revised offer from Penrith – which still didn’t match the money Canberra was offering – swayed Mansour to stay.
The 23-year-old is in career best form and is being talked about as a potential State of Origin bolter for New South Wales in game two of the series.
“Penrith is where my heart is, and it’s where I want my footy career to be right now. We are playing some really good footy as a team and I am so lucky to be a part of that. Working under Ivan has been really good learning experience the last few years, and I feel like he brings out the best in me,” Mansour said.
“Panthers members and fans have been amazing too. They have always been so supportive and they give me so much encouragement, and I want to thank them for cheering us on week in, week out. We wouldn’t be where we are this season without you behind us.”
General Manager of Rugby League, Phil Moss says Mansour is an important part of the Panthers team.
“Josh has been one of Panthers’ best performers this season and I am really happy that he is staying on at the club. He is playing some of the best footy of his career and I’m sure there is more to come,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Panthers have announced the signing of South Sydney player Apisai Koroisau for the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
The 21-year-old hooker was one of the North Sydney Bears’ top performers in 2013, he has played four tests for Fiji and was part of their World Cup squad last year.
