Shaun Johnson doesn't care who the Kangaroos opt for in filling the shoes of their departing stars - it's all about the Kiwis.
The world champions have lost Cameron Smith, Billy Slater, Johnathan Thurston and Cooper Cronk to retirement in the last 12-months, but the Kiwis halfback isn't interested in speculating what the green-and-gold's new spine might look like.
Instead, the 2014 Golden Boot winner wants to focus on their own house, which includes five debutants.
- New Zealand test squad named to face Australia and England
- Greg Inglis' Kangaroos captaincy under threat after drink-driving charge
Brandon Smith, Jahrome Hughes, Isaiah Papali'I, Corey Harawira-Naera and NRL winning centre Joseph Manu were named in Michael McGuire's squad for the one-off test against the Kangaroos, before a three test tour of England later this month.
"It's not about them," Johnson told Newshub.
"It's all about us and what we bring, what we do and how we play.
"There is no point focusing on who they will field, we need to focus on our own backyard first and then do homework on them after that."
The 28-year-old finds himself as the second most capped player in the new look Kiwis side, second only to Adam Blair (45) with 25 test caps.
The Warriors playmaker is prepared to step up as one of the squad's leaders and integrate the new faces into the environment.
"It's important we make them feel really welcome and equal – on the same level as all of us," Johnson said.
"They have been picked in this squad for their performance throughout the year and they deserve to be there and it's important they know that.
"It can be quite daunting coming into an international environment, so in that sense I will take some leadership, make them feel welcome and part of the group.
"I love being around fresh faces who bring a fresh energy because I'm still learning myself. We will all be heading in the same direction."
The depth of the talent pool has been tested with withdrawals and retirement.
Warriors duo Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Issac Luke are recovering from injuries, while Simon Mannering called time on his career before the Denver test in June.
Johnson admits the Kiwis would be a better side had his club teammates been included, but given the quality of players McGuire has been able to call on, it's an exciting time for New Zealand rugby league.
"No doubt they are big losses," Johnson said.
"They bring a lot of experience at this level and given the seasons they have had they warranted selection so it is disappointing for those guys but it gives an opportunity for other players to step up and perform well.
"That's what we want to do – we want to establish competition among the group and you will only be picked if you deserve to be picked.
"It's so good to see the depth we have and some of those young guys are going to become world class players."
Fixtures:
October 13 v Australia, Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland
October 27 v England, KC Stadium, Hull
November 4 v England, Anfield, Liverpool
November 10 v England, Elland Road, Leeds
Newshub.
