Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou has hit back at the criticism of Jack Wighton's deal with the club, describing it as an 'agenda-driven circus' on Thursday.
The 30-year-old ended weeks of speculation regarding his NRL future this week, putting pen to paper on a four-year deal with South Sydney worth an estimated $3.4 million.
Wighton knocked back a lucrative offer from the Dolphins, as well as a $4.4 million extension with the Raiders, instead opting to chase success and link up with close mate Latrell Mitchell.
The decision has left many within the rugby league world frustrated and confused as to how the Bunnies could afford another high-profile star, despite having the likes of Latrell, Cameron Murray and Cody Walker on their books.
MORE: Who will replace Jack Wighton at the Raiders?
Speaking to the media prior to the Round 9 clash with the Broncos, Demetriou said he was pleased to get the deal over the line, but admitted he sympathised with Canberra given the situation that has unfolded.
“We’re excited to get it over the line, I know it was a tough decision for Jack and we could feel that when we were talking to him" Demetriou said.
“I understand that it’s tough when a player is having to do this in-season…we went through it with Adam [Reynolds] as well. He made the decision to go and he was outstanding for us for the rest of the year, as I’m sure Jack will be.
“He has played 220 games for Canberra, he has given great service to that club and he will give great service for the rest of the year. He loves representing the club…I have no doubt he will be ripping in for Ricky and the Raiders.
"Hopefully they can have a good season and Jack can leave on good terms."
Wighton's deal with Souths has raised plenty of eyebrows, with the star five-eighth taking a hefty pay cut ahead of his move in 2024.
But according to Demetriou, there has been no rorting of the NRL salary cap rules and any criticisms of the contract were off the mark.
“It’s a circus with agenda-driven people saying things that they have no information about," he said.
"The reality is we are comfortable with it, we will go to the NRL…Jack is comfortable and it’s all above board, we have no problems."
Phil Gould and Kevin Walters have also urged the league's powerbrokers to make some adjustments - something that even Demetriou admitted he would be open to, despite the current rules playing into his favour.
“I’m not sure how it works, I’d have to get more information and find out how it works," he said.
"Everyone know it’s not ideal that players are signing contracts when there’s this long to go at their current club.
"I’d be open to listening to anything they have to offer."
