Leniu said he had no issues with Milne,who was hit with a six-match ban and will essentially miss the World Cup with Fiji as a result.

Milne,who became the first player sent off in a finals game in 28 years,had not reached out to Leniu,nor did the Panther expect an apology.

“Whatever happens on the field,stays on the field,” Leniu said.

“That’s everyone’s motto. I honestly can’t remember too much what happened afterwards[with Milne]. I just remember all our coaching staff pulling me up the tunnel.

“I pulled up really well after the game. I couldn’t sleep,but that was more the adrenaline.

“The possibility I might be ruled out of a ‘GF’ was probably the reason I was so angry. That was why I was so frustrated,but I’ve been cleared now.”

Souths star Latrell Mitchell showed immediate concern for Leniu after being coat-hangered by Milne.

Coach Ivan Cleary said after the game it was probably best Leniu did not return because he was so fired up. Leniu,22,has the ability to produce a non-compromising brand of football in short bursts for the premiers.

“He is emotional and doesn’t take a backward step,” Cleary said afterthe win over Souths.

Leniu added on Tuesday:“Every prop has that mentality,and if you don’t have that aggression,you can’t call yourself a prop. It’s one of the good attributes I have.”

Leniu has another year remaining on his deal but is likely to leave Penrith given Moses Leota and James Fisher-Harris are the long-term starting front-rowers. The local junior has attracted plenty of interest –he passed on Craig Bellamy and the Storm a few years ago to recommit to Penrith – with the chance to play longer minutes his main goal.

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