Parramatta are not holding their breath on a mid-season transfer of Cronulla fullback Michael Gordon and are focused on improving without him.
The 31-year-old was reportedly set to switch camps last week on a long-term deal, however the Sharks scuppered the move at the 11th hour and intend on keeping Gordon until his contract finishes at the end of the season.
Eels captain Tim Mannah believed the deal was over the line.
"I had a bit of an idea what was going on, but obviously it's up to the coaches to sort out what happens and what they do," he said on Tuesday.
"As players, it's our responsibility to train well and play well. I've got full trust in the coaches and a lot of faith in them to make sure they make the right decisions for the club."
Hooker Isaac De Gois moved to Parramatta from Cronulla after round 13 last season without incident, but said Gordon's situation could be different.
The Sharks' depth on the flanks has already been tested this year after injuries to Sosaia Feki, Fa'amanu Brown, and Kyle Stanley.
"It's something obviously between the Sharks and Mick and whoever else is involved," De Gois said.
"Everyone's situation is different.
"My situation, I asked for a release and they granted it. So I was thankful it happened that way."
De Gois said Gordon, who has switched between fullback and wing this year, would be a valuable addition to an Eels side that has struggled to fill the void left by former star Jarryd Hayne.
Eels coach Brad Arthur experimented with Will Hopoate at the start of the year before employing Reece Robinson for the past three games.
"We all see `Flash' play - he's just your good quality fullback," De Gois said.
"He can kick goals too, which is a bonus. He's an asset to any team, to be honest with you.
"He won't just fit good with us, he'd fit good with 15 other clubs."
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