They may both crave the same Queensland jersey but Billy Slater insists there is no bad blood with Maroons fullback rival Darius Boyd ahead of Wednesday's State of Origin game two in Sydney.
In fact, Slater revealed they each are the other's biggest supporter in the Maroons camp.
Slater - 34 on Sunday - capped a remarkable comeback from two shoulder reconstructions when he reclaimed the Maroons No.1 jumper from Boyd for Wednesday must-win battle.
As a result, Test fullback Boyd will be injected into a new-look Maroons backline at either left centre or wing.
Slater said they may both want the same spot but both had each other's back in game two at ANZ Stadium.
Slater revealed they had kept in touch since he sent a congratulatory message to Boyd after being controversially overlooked for game one.
The fallout over Slater's Origin I snubbing was felt in the corridors of power in Queensland, with Federal MP Bob Katter sending an official complaint to the QRL over Boyd's selection at fullback over the veteran.
"I understand externally it has been put up as Darius versus myself," Slater, a veteran of 27 Origins, said.
"We certainly don't see it that way.
"I was in contact with Darbs post selection for the first game, wished him all the best and that, a lot of the chat was unwarranted. We both just want what is best for Queensland.
"We have been involved in a lot of successful Queensland teams together - I think once we get out there on Wednesday night it will be business as usual."
Boyd admitted to some mixed feelings over losing his beloved Queensland jersey to the Maroons great.
"I thought Billy would get first crack at that (fullback) first game anyway to be honest," Boyd said.
"It's probably more disappointing to get a go and then lose it I guess, but in saying that I am happy I am in the team.
"And it's good to see Billy back. He does deserve it."
Boyd was relieved the speculation over who would be Queensland's fullback had finally ended, even though it did cost him his preferred position.
"It's a bit annoying and frustrating all the talk and speculation," he said.
"I play footy because I love the game. I don't play it for the hype or who's playing where, or for people to come out and want to bag you.
"We want Queensland to get behind us no matter who is in the team."
Boyd confirmed Slater had pleasantly surprised him by congratulating him after his game one appointment.
"While he would have been disappointed he still texted me a message of support, I really appreciated that," Boyd said.
"There's no bad blood.
"If I got picked on the wing for the first game I would have been happy regardless."
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