New Warriors five-eighth Adam Keighran is crediting the work of halves partner Blake Green, as he prepares to make his NRL debut against the Bulldogs this weekend.
Named to have the first go at replacing Shaun Johnson for the Warriors, 21-year old Keighran will look to steer the side from five-eighth, with Green shifting to halfback.
And while some may be nervous ahead of their first-grade debut, Keighran is somewhat calmed by the influence of Green alongside him.
"I think just being under Greeny [Blake Green] has helped my progression, he's a good role model, very vocal, and that's one thing I need to work on with the communication with the boys," Keighran told NRL.com.
"He's helped in that sense and just getting that confidence ... if I become more vocal and my communication is up there, then that confidence will come."
Keighran also says that Johnson's departure hasn't changed his process in any way, making the move across the Tasman from Penrith to nail down a place as a regular first-grader.
"The focus was always there to try and crack that first-grade spot, but it was sort of a bonus that the spot became available," Keighran said.
"I always had a focus to put it out there that I wanted to play in that first-grade role.
"[Johnson leaving] didn't really increase my intensity at all. I have always tried to give it my all."
Keighran will line up for the Warriors in their season opener against the Bulldogs at Mt Smart Stadium this Saturday.
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