Joel Griffiths says he is more nervous about the impending birth of his child than what he was before the A-League Grand Final in 2008.

Griffiths is in Newcastle to be by his wife Biance for the birth after being granted a few days leave by his Chinese club, Beijing Guoan.

"It is a bit surreal, to be honest," Griffiths said.

"Bianca picked me up at the airport and I did not really recognise her. Two months is a long time when it comes to pregnancy.

"I am more nervous than when we played the grand final two years ago.

"The birth has crept up on me because I have been over in Beijing playing. Now I'm back, the reality has hit home."

Initially, Griffiths was only going to be able to spend two days in Newcastle but a five-week ban for an elbowing incident has seen him able to stay a bit longer.

"It is good for myself and Bianca that I can stay with the family a few more days," he added.

"It was one of those things. You don't mean to get suspended, especially for so long. I guess it worked out well in a way. Things happen for a reason. That is life and you have to roll with it."

Griffiths also said he would sit down with Newcastle Jets coach Gary van Egmond to discuss his playing future.

"I have to sit down with Gary and give him an idea of my plans and find out his," Griffiths said.

"At the moment I am concentrating on the birth.

"Whatever happens it will be what is best for my family and both clubs.

"I am in a win-win situation. If it does not work out in Beijing then I have a home back here."