The code-hopping star has copped a barrage of criticism from angry Eels fans since announcing his two-year $2.4 million contract with the Gold Coast Titans.

But it appears it was Parramatta’s blunder that prevented the 28-year-old from returning to the club he debuted with in 2006.   

With several deals on the table, Hayne said he had not heard from the Eels and actually had to call them and ask for an offer.

 “I had to ask,” Hayne said before his first training run with his new teammates.

“They offered me a contract when I asked. I’d been unemployed for about a month. I’d been knocking back offers for that long waiting for theirs.

“If you have to call someone and ask, it’s not a good sign.

“I waited as long as I could and did what I could.”

Hayne said he understood the disappointment of coach Brad Arthur and his teammates but ultimately had to make a decision on his future.

“I feel for the playing group and Brad (Arthur) because they’re a great bunch of guys,” Hayne said.

“From a board point of view, CEO and GM, they really need to get that sorted out before anything else.”