Sydney AFL superstar Lance Franklin says he will grow into the role of a spokesman on indigenous issues rather than immediately adopt the mantle held by retired teammate Adam Goodes.

Franklin said on Wednesday it was sad that Goodes was to some extent forced out of the game by continual booing from opposition fans.

The 29-year-old Franklin hasn’t been known for making statements on indigenous matters despite being the code’s most high-profile indigenous player.

“I don’t consciously stay away from it but I think it is something I will grow into as the years go on,” Franklin said on Wednesday.