But after failing to play up to expectations last season, the immediate focus is to return to finals football. Can Trbojevic, one of the most softly spoken of the game’s stars, be able to rip into his teammates when a spray is required? What will be his captaincy style?

“Dictator,” Trbojevic quipped, before adding he chipped his teammates “more than you think”.

‘I’m quite easygoing, but some things you pick up as a fullback you kind of need to be quite direct.’

Tom Trbojevic

“I’ll have a laugh and I’m quite easygoing, but some things you pick up as a fullback you kind of need to be quite direct with some of the things you say, so I’ve done a lot of that.”

While Trbojevic’s immediate future has been resolved, that of Jake is less certain. The former NSW captain suffered a spate of head knocks in quick succession last season, raising concerns about his longevity in the game.

Off contract at the end of next year, Sea Eagles officials have parked extension negotiations with Jake until they witness how he returns.

“The way he finished last year with his head was a little bit disappointing for him and it’s something that I guess he’s had to manage, but [that is] in the past, whatever it’s been,” Trbojevic said.

“But he feels good, he’s gonna obviously put it back into training, see where he’s at. I don’t think he’s made a decision on what he’s going to do post next year, but I feel like he’s got time to do that.”

The focus has now shifted to the future of several high-profile teammates. Reuben Garrick, off contract beyond next season, has attracted interest from several clubs including the Roosters, while Tolu Koula has an option in his favour for 2027.

In taking a pay cut, Trbojevic has made it easier for the club to retain the duo, although it’s unclear whether they will leave. “I’m not telling anyone to [take pay cuts as well],” Trbojevic said.

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“I’m not so sure where they’re both at, but they’re both integral players and parts of our team, and we’d love to have them both here.”

As for Cherry-Evans, the veteran Roosters halfback will play against his former club for the first time in round four. “It just looked weird,” Trbojevic said of the sight of “DCE” in Roosters attire.

“It’ll probably be hyped-up week [when we clash], everyone will be talking about it, but this happens in the sport.”