Timana Tahu's attempt to revive his career at Penrith has suffered a massive setback with the dual international ruled out for the rest of the NRL season.

Scans have confirmed Tahu ruptured a pectoral muscle in Friday night's win over Brisbane and will require surgery.

The injury is season-ending and may also be career-threatening for the 30-year-old, who signed with the Panthers for one year in an attempt to get his troubled career back on track.

Tahu left Parramatta in clouded circumstances after a tumultuous 2010 which included two highly publicised racism rows and a suspension for a blatant high shot in a game against his former club Newcastle.

He took time off from the Eels twice, mid-season and during the off-season, to deal with personal issues.

Tahu signed with the Panthers in March and has been used in both his preferred position of centre and as a backrower by coach Matt Elliott.

He would have been hoping to convince new rugby league manager Phil Gould he was worth re-signing on a longer deal.

Tahu's injury is also a blow to the struggling Panthers who, despite a 33-10 win over the Broncos on Friday night, have won just three from nine in 2011.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP