Several media outlets, including Fairfax Media, showed images from the video on Wednesday showing McKinnon hugging his fiancée Tegan Power at a rehabilitation centre on the Gold Coast. The video was originally published by News Corp.

McKinnon took to Twitter on Thursday to express his gratitude for all the support he received – but also said it was "disappointing a personal video was leaked and aired without our permission."

I'm very grateful for the support. Yet It is disappointing a personal video was leaked and aired without our permission — Alex Mckinnon (@mckinnon92) January 15, 2015

The Knights utility player was diagnosed as a quadriplegic following a sickening tackle during the round-three match against the Melbourne Storm in March. He is set to return to the Knights later this month to take up an off-field position with the club.

Knights coach Rick Stone told Sky Sports Radio that McKinnon would work alongside himself, director of football Michael Hagan and high performance coach Troy Pezet in recruitment, as well as a part-time role in a commercial area.

"That's going to be a great opportunity for Alex to get his teeth into something he really loves, footy," Stone said.

"He's an inspiring young man and everyone in the club will be really happy to see him back."

Fairfax Media with Josh Leeson, The Newcastle Herald