Will Genia says talent doesn't necessarily equate to titles as the under-performing Melbourne Rebels look to finally become a Super Rugby threat.
Expectations are high both internally and externally after the Rebels benefited most from the demise of the Western Force, luring 12 players and their coach Dave Wessels to Melbourne.
They include Wallabies locks Adam Coleman and Matt Philip as well as backline star Dane Haylett-Petty.
Test halfback Genia, who has joined Melbourne this season after a two-year stint in France, also offers valuable experience to the club which only managed one Super Rugby win last year.
Despite the depth of talent across the squad, Genia said that limited time together would be their biggest barrier.
"The way that we want to play, we're still trying to build on that and the good thing is that we've still got another six weeks until our first game and it's a work in progress," Genia said after his first Rebels training session on Thursday.
"We ourselves set high expectations.
"You can look at the playing group on paper and think we should do this or that but the biggest thing is to build that environment and culture.
"We've obviously got some great players who have come across from other teams but other teams have had the opportunity to build combinations over a long period of time."
After a six-week break following the Wallabies Spring tour, Genia admitted he was off the pace in his first session.
"I've got a bit of work to do; I did a little bit training but nothing compares to getting out there and getting stuck in with the boys."
The future of his long-time Queensland Reds halves partner Quade Cooper remains clouded with his manager Khoder Nasser adamant he would be fulfilling his contract at the Redse despite new coach Brad Thorn advising Cooper not to come to training.
Genia said Cooper remained one of his favourite players and he actually watched his good mate's prodigious talents on YouTube.
"He's a great player and I hope I see him playing at that top level again soon either with or against him," Genia said.
"He's a great player and he's still got so much to offer so I hope he can find a home."
Asked if he'd like to see him in Melbourne colours Genia said: "That's not up to me but I'd like to play with him wherever that might be".
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