Titans need good Friend like Zillman

FORMER Gold Coast stalwart Nathan Friend has urged the Titans to re-sign his 2016 cocaptain William Zillman to a 10th season at the club.

Having been plagued by injuries since joining the Gold Coast from Canberra in 2009, Zillman has often been the target of fan criticism for not offering enough throughout his rich long-term contract that expires this year.

But the 31-year-old has hit back, playing 11 straight games and delivering a form resurgence from the left wing.

Zillman has clearly stated his intention to play on.

It’s well known he’d need to take an enormous pay cut to extend his career – a situation Friend is familiar with, having returned for a Titans swansong on minimum wage.

“He’s been on a good wicket so I don’t think he’s too concerned about paying the bills,” Friend said.

“If his head is there for the enjoyment of the game and what he brings to the side, then there is no reason why he can’t perform well on minimum wage, that’s for sure.”

Emerging flyers Phillip Sami and Tyronne RobertsDavis are waiting in the wings for an extended crack at first grade but either way Friend said Zillman would be a major asset to the young Titans list.

“His training ethic is second to none and he is a great guy to have at the club,” he said.

“He is the most likeable guy you will meet, just a champion.

“You certainly need people like that around the club so if he can, if he’s there next year, it would be great to see and I’m sure they’ll find a spot for him.”

Friend added that off-contract utility Tyrone Roberts had shown enough for a deal.

However, he declared the club must put faith in rising talent – much like powerhouse Melbourne do when their stars depart – if they are unable to hold onto the likes of Roberts.

“There are a few players coming off contract and if they don’t want to hang at the club for a certain price … then the club has got to let them go and back the juniors,” Friend said.

“It’s hard but it’s the way it is. It’s a job these days and unfortunately players are going to be poached.

“I guess at the end of the day, we’ve got a really big backyard here.

“Brisbane use it wisely and it’s something that we need to work on I reckon.”