If confidence is the key to succeeding in the NRL, then Gold Coast youngster Ash Taylor will do just fine for the Titans in 2016.
The 20-year-old was elevated from promising recruit to key playmaker following Kane Elgey's season-ending knee injury last month.
Given Taylor's lack of experience, many pencilled the Titans in for this year's wooden spoon as soon as Elgey's fate was confirmed.
Despite having just one injury-shortened NRL appearance to his name however, Taylor says he's revelling in the challenge of proving he can transition from highly-touted youngster to NRL starter.
"I just had to take a step back and think about it," Taylor said when he heard about Elgey's injury.
"Didn't know what to think at the start, just felt sad for him.
"I'm more than confident in stepping up now ... the opportunity has come up.
"Can't wait for it."
A former Junior Kangaroo, Taylor was released by Brisbane last year to join the Titans.
Despite being let go from Red Hill, Taylor says the experience he gained as a member of the first team squad in 2015 will stand him in good stead as he gets accustomed to his new surroundings.
"I got a lot out of my season last year because I was training full time," Taylor said.
"Obviously Corey Parker, Ben Hunt, Anthony Milford - they're all world class players and I got a lot out of them last year.
"At the Broncos I filled the void with Ben Hunt - now I've got to make it my own."
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