Andrew McCullough has issued a reality check to Brisbane teammate Tevita Pangai as the search to replace departed lock Josh McGuire heats up.
The Queensland and Australian No.13's sudden shift to North Queensland has left a gaping hole of quality and experience in a Broncos side also without the retired Sam Thaiday next year.
Hooker McCullough isn't sure who will fill the void in the middle but knows that Pangai, despite his game-breaking ability, had some work to do if it is to be him.
"He might have to work on his fitness a bit," McCullough said of the Tongan star after returning to fitness training on Thursday.
"He's a naturally powerful guy, but playing in the middle requires big minutes, back-to-back efforts and he's got a lot work to do on that."
Pangai has committed to the Broncos for 2019 but would be free to follow current coach Wayne Bennett to South Sydney next year.
Unfazed by reports Brisbane are targeting NSW hooking rival Damien Cook, McCullough will remain at Red Hill until 2021.
But he can't speak for his teammates.
"You'll have to ask those guys; I don't know the deals or protocols of any of those sort of guys," he said.
Jack Bird, returning for a second season in Brisbane, is another option after an injury-marred introduction to Red Hill ended with him on the sidelines this year.
He has returned in good shape and has the backing of teammates to deliver on his promise in 2019, but there is no underselling what they'll miss from McGuire's exit.
"He competed very hard; he's a very aggressive sort of guy and that's partially the reason why they got him up there in Townsville," the No.9 said.
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