Michael Jennings has joined Parramatta on a four-year deal. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Michael Jennings will be hoping that Eels fans don’t — or if they don’t forget, that they are at least the forgiving types.

Jennings’ shock switch from the Roosters to the Eels was announced on Monday, the NSW star revealing his “excitement” at joining the western Sydney outfit.

That’s a complete turnaround to what he had to say about the Eels a few years ago, in an interview that might just come back to bite him.

In an interview ahead of a Penrith-Parramatta clash in 2011, the then Panthers flyer revealed his dislike for the Eels club.

“I don’t hate the Parramatta players, just the team they represent,” Jennings said.

“If you come through the Penrith juniors, you’re brought up to hate Parra. That’s how I was brought up and I’m sure it’s still going on.”

Michael Jennings says he was brought up to hate Parramatta.Source:News Limited

Five years is a long time in rugby league though, and Jennings is feeling a lot differently about Parramatta now.

“I’m really excited about joining the Eels,” Jennings said in the Eels statement announcing his signing.

“Parramatta’s a club on the rise and I’m looking forward to the challenge, taking a leadership role and further developing my game.

Michael Jennings is excited to be joining the Eels. Picture: Gregg PorteousSource:News Corp Australia

“I have some really good mates at the club — boys I’ve grown up with — and I’m confident we can do well in the coming years.

“It will be a new experience playing out of the home sheds at Pirtek Stadium but it’s something I’m very excited about and I can’t wait to get started.”

Jennings’ move to Parramatta was swiftly followed by the Roosters confirming the signature of Broncos centre Dale Copley.

It continues a flurry of off-season transfer activity, which is showing no signs of slowing down.