Incoming Warriors enforcer Tohu Harris has all but ruled himself out of next month's ANZAC Test due to a foot injury but harbours dreams of a big 2017 for the Kiwis.
The Kiwis' back rower suffered a stress fracture during a preseason match against the Bulldogs in Hobart and has yet to feature for the Melbourne Storm this season.
Speaking to Trackside radio, Harris told Te Arahi Maipi and Sam Ackerman that the focus was getting ready for the Rugby League World cup at the end of the season.
"I had a meeting with [David] Kidwell a few weeks ago and the focus is getting the foot right," said Harris
"It's not realistic for me to play [In the ANZAC Test]. I'm just focused on getting the foot right and hopefully it continues to get better and give myself the best chance to be there at the end of the year."
Even though Harris is set to miss the ANZAC Test in Canberra, the 25-year old will be fit in the coming weeks if everything goes to plan.
While he's returned to training, he admits that it has been challenging sitting out the start of the season.
"I've started running and doing skills with the team so I have to see how it holds up to see if I can do the next session.
"It's been tough I have had to take it day by day to get through it. It's the first time I've gone through this since I've been in the NRL.
"It's hard seeing the boys play and not being a part of it. Everybody [at the Storm] has done a great job and working hard."
Harris is a specialist back rower, and was signed by the Warriors to replace the unwanted Ryan Hoffman in the forwards. But things could change for Harris who can play in the centres and also the halves if needed.
With Kieran Foran rumoured to have signed with the Canterbury Bulldogs on a three year deal, the six jersey at the Warriors will be vacant. With very few quality halves left on the market, and potential pressure on Kearney to deliver in 2018, Harris could be one of the Warriors halves in 2018.
And he said he'd happily step in and play five eight if needed but would prefer to play in the forwards.
"I'll play where the team needs me, but I definitely would prefer to be in the back row.
"That's where I feel most comfortable and my best football but if it’s required for me to do that then I'm willing to do it."
Harris admitted playing with Kieran Foran in 2018 would have been the perfect scenario, but the 14-Test Kiwi knew when he signed that Foran might not be at the club.
"I played with Kieran a few times in the Kiwis and he's definitely a great player but we knew that he was off contract and he might not be there next year.
"He's somebody who I'd definitely love to play with at club level, but I always knew there was a chance that might not happen."
Harris will be eagerly watching on the sideline this week as his current team the Storm take on his new team the Warriors in Melbourne on ANZAC Day
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