Darius Boyd insists speculation linking Adam Blair with a move to the Warriors won't be a distraction for the stand-in Brisbane captain.
On the same day Blair was announced as Boyd's replacement as skipper for Friday's NRL finals opener against Sydney Roosters, news broke that the prop would soon announce he was heading across the ditch next year.
The New Zealand forward is contracted with the Broncos until next year but has been given permission to speak with other clubs.
Sidelined with a hamstring injury, Boyd said he was unsure if Blair would walk away but confident the inspirational front-rower would put the contract talk behind him against the Roosters.
"I would dearly love for him to stay but he's a professional," he said of the former Melbourne and Wests Tigers player.
"He's played a lot of finals and Tests so he can focus on footy and worry about the contract stuff after."
Blair has been linked to a lucrative four-year deal with the Warriors who are desperate to revamp their roster after failing once again to make the finals.
The Auckland-based side haven't secure a top-eight finish since reaching the 2011 grand final.
"Blairy has been great for this club. I hope he stays," Boyd said.
"I know all the boys love playing alongside him.
"He is a special talent and leader on the field.
"I am sure it is something he and his family are weighing up.
"But guys move on and sign contracts a year before they are leaving, some sign a week before they leave - it is part of the business now."
Blair said on Tuesday that he'd put contract talks on hold.
"The most important thing is to focus on footy at the moment," he said.
"It (contract talks) is lingering around but I have put it aside at the moment.
"It will get sorted hopefully soon."
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