GUY McKenna has hit back at rumours linking Karmichael Hunt with a return to rugby league, saying he is in the Suns' best team when fully fit and will see out his contract.
Earlier this week, Brisbane Broncos coach Anthony Griffin said he would consider pursuing Hunt if he wanted to revert to league, once his AFL contract expired at the end of 2014.
Former Broncos and Queensland captain Gorden Tallis also voiced his approval, saying it would be a good move by the struggling Broncos.
But McKenna was not fussed by the talk, saying he has heard it all before.
"Those questions … have been going on ever since he [Hunt] joined the AFL," the Gold Coast coach said on Friday.
"'It's a stunt - he's not going to make it'. I think most of the AFL journos were saying that.
"He's gone out and played 40-odd games, kicked match-winning goals, had some good performances, and like any first, second or third year player will do, he's going to have some ups and downs.
"I can't control what's being said about him. We know his importance to our side and his continued growth within our team."
Hunt has battled hamstring tendonitis, and combined with a calf injury that currently has him sidelined, has played just one game since round six.
"He's a required player for next year, he's got another year on his contract," McKenna said.
"I know K being a competitor he is … he's still got growth to happen and I'm sure when he's fit and playing the football we expect, he'll be back in our side when he's ready.
"I'm only on (contracted) until next year so K's on board with me next year and that's how I see it. Beyond that, until things change, I can't control that."
Michael Whiting is a reporter with AFL Media. You can follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting