Puletua
released from Titans

Frank Puletua has been released from his playing contract at the Gold Coast Titans.

The 27-year-old had signed to play two seasons with the new NRL club after spending the last three years with the Penrith Panthers, but has been granted a release on compassionate grounds.

Puletua will be able to start training with Penrith almost immediately.

"It's good news," Penrith General Manager Michael Leary said today. "The Titans have shown compassion to Frank in difficult personal circumstances and we are pleased that he can stay with us.

"He'll resume training with us shortly."

Here is part of the statement released to the media today by Titans managing director Michael Searle: "Frank approached the Club some months ago, requesting a release from his contract which was initially declined.

"Frank has recently had further issues arise and he presented those circumstances to the Club and his request for release based on compassionate grounds. The Club has offered Frank an unconditional release, effective immediately based on these compassionate grounds.

"I have today contacted Michael Leary (Penrith Panthers CEO) and advised him of our decision and provided him with our support should the Penrith Panthers wish to sign Frank for a further term now that we have released him."