Melbourne's Cameron Munster has ruled out filling Billy Slater's vacant Storm fullback jersey, saying he won't be shifting from five-eighth for their NRL season-opener against Brisbane next week.
With Scott Drinkwater, the first-choice replacement for the retired Slater, suffering a long-term injury in their final trial, Munster could move back to his preferred position.
But the 24-year-old said he and Storm coach Craig Bellamy had agreed wearing No.6 this season was best for the team.
"Me and Bellyache (Bellamy) have had a discussion and we feel the best thing for the team is me playing at six," Munster said on Wednesday.
"We've got some good young talent coming through at fullback and some some depth there.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"Hopefully I can play some good footy and give those guys some space around the edges."
Munster backed Jahrome Hughes as their custodian, after filling in for six games there last year in Slater's absence.
Munster said they needed to tweak their game plan following Drinkwater's injury, to maximise Hughes' strength as a ball-runner.
Despite that, he says they are on track for their round-one match next Thursday night at AAMI Park, when Munster expects to be much more vocal than in previous seasons.
"I think I have to be more of a leader with Bill gone - talking a little bit more, organising the shape and get the ball in my hands," Munster said.
"If I try too hard and think too hard I won't pay my best football so I will let it flow but I need to step up a lot more."
