NRL: No bad blood if Tahu faces Eels says Hindmarsh

Timana Tahu. Photo / Getty Images

Parramatta captain Nathan Hindmarsh says there will be no hard feelings if former teammate Timana Tahu lines up against the Eels in Friday's NRL derby clash with Penrith.

Tahu walked out on the Eels at the end of last season after a controversy-filled year, but is close to penning a deal with the Panthers.

Should he complete the deal this week, Tahu could be rushed into a Penrith side still reeling from Sunday's 42-8 loss at home to Newcastle.

But Hindmarsh believes there is no bad blood between Tahu and the Eels, comparing the situation to when now-Manly centre Jamie Lyon left the Eels at the start of 2004.

"No hard feelings," Hindmarsh said.

"It's the same situation with Jamie Lyon I think, if they decide they want to move on that's their decision.

"It hasn't effected the team, our relationship is still the same.

"It will be interesting...it would be good to see him back in the game.

"I think he's got a lot to offer to the game and we all happy for him if he does come back and play.

"I think he'll be good for them."

- AAP