Newcastle Knights great Matty Johns believes the speculation on Kalyn Ponga’s future is having a negative impact on his performance.
Following Newcastle’s 18-0 defeat to the Cronulla Sharks, Ponga met with Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett to discuss a potential move to the NRL’s latest team.
Johns says that Ponga must make a decision on his future quickly or his performances on the field may suffer.
“I hope (the speculation) brings Kalyn to a decision sooner rather than later,” Johns said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“At the moment, he is playing distracted and if it drags on, it’s got the ability to really derail Newcastle’s season.
“He has the conversation with Wayne (Bennett), and I don’t begrudge him.
“It’s the biggest decision of his professional life and I hope it brings him to a decision in the very near future.”
Ponga was well below his usual standards against Cronulla. The 24-year-old didn’t have a single line break and tackled at just 50% efficiency.
Johns says Ponga should decide on his future in Newcastle soon to alleviate the pressure off the club and give the Knights plenty of time to plan for next season.
Johns also believes that if Ponga were to announce his departure quickly, it allows Newcastle to look for a high-profile replacement including Melbourne Storm playmaker Cameron Munster.
“I hope he stays but if it brings him to a decision earlier rather than later that he’s going to the Dolphins,” Johns said.
“Then it at least gives Newcastle a chance to go out there and sign (Cameron) Munster.
“You don’t want to be six weeks down the track, Ponga says he’s leaving and suddenly Munster re-signs here or players of his quality (are unavailable).”
Newcastle will hope to bounce back after successive losses when they host the Manly Sea Eagles on April 7.