Utility back Gerard Beale has come to terms with his imminent NZ Warriors departure.
In July, Warriors owner Mark Robinson indicated the 30-year-old was unlikely to get a new contract when his current deal expired
This season, Beale has struggled with injury and a lack of game-time, and he's not holding out hope for a late reprieve.
"I'd say it's shut at the Warriors," Beale admits. "I suppose there have been a lot of challenges there, but I still hold the club in high regard."
On Sunday, Beale will play his first game since the round eight win over the Broncos, with the Warriors trying to keep their NRL playoffs hopes alive against Parramatta Eels.
Since interim coach Todd Payten took over the reins from Stephen Kearney, the 11-test Kiwis international has been consistently overlooked in favour of younger, less experienced players, with Payten preferring to blood the likes of Hayze Perham and Adam Pompey.
Even Parramatta loan player George Jennings has usurped him in the pecking order and his Eels-enforced absence has opened the door for Beale to play what may be his final game for the club.
Weeks ago, Payten took Beale aside to explain the approach he'd take for the rest of the season.
"It was a tricky one," Beale says. "He did have a conversation, he wanted to give some of the younger boys a run and credit to those boys, because they’ve got tremendous talent and they’re certainly showing what they can do.
"It's a tough one, but it's the environment we're in. It is hard, but in saying that, there are other players in the squad that aren’t getting an opportunity.
"But you've got to stay ready and when the opportunity presents itself, you jump straight into it."
Injury-plagued Beale is without a contract for next season, but is adamant he still has plenty to offer. Retirement is not an option yet.
"I'm still keen to keep playing. It's not like any other year, because there’s a lot going on.
"I'm also taking a look into what’s next for Gerard Beale past football. It is getting close, but hopefully not just yet."
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