Michael Gordon insists he and AJ Brimson are as thick as thieves despite the pair, at opposite ends of their NRL careers, being in a fight for the No.1 jersey on the Gold Coast.
Gordon arrived last season to fill the void left by Jarryd Hayne and was one of the Titans’ most reliable players.
Injury opened the door for Brimson though, the then 19-year-old sending tongues wagging during stints at the back and in the halves.
Gordon has entered the final season of his career in good shape and with Brimson on the comeback from off-season shoulder surgery will get first crack at fullback in Saturday’s trial game against Brisbane.
Admitting they were in a tussle of sorts, the 35-year-old said there’d be no kicking stones if the apprentice won out.
“I love him; he’s such a good kid, we’re always having a good laugh and there’s no arrogance about him,” Gordon said.
“If I don’t get picked and he does I’ll be the first to congratulate him.
“He gets revved up a bit by the guys for being the golden boy, but he’s got a great head on his shoulders.”
Gordon said coach Garth Brennan had warned him to expect stints in the centres and the wing this weekend.
It could be the same during the premiership season with Brimson also an option off the bench if not preferred in a starting role.
“I was like ‘yeah, bring it on’,” Gordon said of the prospect of a utility role.
“I’d be happy playing anywhere and I’m sure AJ is the same.
“I’ve played just about every position in my career.”