NZ Warriors players hold no ill will towards youngster Reece Walsh, after his decision to leave the club after this NRL season.
Last week, Walsh, 20, was granted a release from his contract with the club to return to Brisbane Broncos for 2023.
The young fullback had previously committed to moving to New Zealand when the Warriors return next year, but a change in personal circumstances has forced a change in attitude.
Walsh's separation from his Australian-based partner has seen him released on compassionate grounds, so he can stay near daughter Leila.
His exit mirrors those of former coach Nathan Brown and prop Matt Lodge - both refusing to relocate - while centre Euan Aitken will follow in 2023 to join Redcliffe Dolphins.
But those committed to return to New Zealand have no doubts over what's to come from Walsh, backing the young fullback to continue to perform for the Warriors in his final games.
"He's remaining here for the rest of the year," said hooker Wayde Egan. "He's decided to play for the club that's given him the opportunity.
"I'm sure he'll do everything he can to have some good performances. We're backing him 100 percent to do that for us."
Egan insists the playing squad have no issues with Walsh's decision, understanding that he's put his family ahead of the club.
After returning to New Zealand earlier this month, the Warriors have drawn a line under the Walsh debacle to finish their NRL campaign - starting with Parramatta Eels on Friday.
"No-one really knew until about a week ago, when the news broke," Egan said. "He told the group before it all came out.
"It moved pretty quickly. Once it was done, the staff said to put it to the side and not worry about that.
"Reece has done what's best for his family, we can't hold a grudge against him at all.
"Not being able to see his daughter would have been pretty tough [while] back in New Zealand.
"Once it sort of came out, everyone wished him the best, but he's still with us for the rest of the year, so he knows he's going to do a job for us."
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