Warriors need to focus on a Plan B

But otherwise, the Warriors have a window of opportunity. They have a multitude of players off contract at the end of this year, most of whom have had a chance to prove their worth (or otherwise) for the past two or three seasons.

The club must act judiciously, and without sentiment on who should stay and who gets cut, then find the most suitable talent available around the NRL. It doesn’t necessarily mean big money — remember James Maloney in 2010 — and Paul Vaughan’s recent move to the Dragons is a shining example of a great pick-up.

At the same time, there needs to be a focus on getting the best out of their 2017 campaign. Foran will surely feel responsibility to lead that charge, and it is imperative the club makes the finals this year. Otherwise there is no platform for next year.

Look at the lack of playoff experience across their roster. Of the likely 17 to face the Storm on Anzac Day, only eight have played in the finals and two (Foran and Ryan Hoffman) won’t be around next year.

Stephen Kearney has also never tasted September football as a coach, nor have his assistants Andrew McFadden or Stacey Jones.

Foran’s likely exit looks harsh — especially with the soap opera circumstances of the past few weeks — but his overall impact can only really be judged five months from now. If, at that stage, the Warriors find themselves in the top eight, then the amount of time, energy and resources poured into the Kiwi international would have been justified.

There is also the intangible effect of Foran’s presence on the training field for the best part of a year, with everyone soaking up lessons from the experienced playmaker. Foran was always only likely to stay for a year, despite the hopes of everyone from managing director Jim Doyle to the fan base, and now reality will probably bite.